Smart Communities: How Citizens and Local Leaders Can Use Strategic Thinking to Build a Brighter Future
“Anyone who dreams of making his or her community a better place to live and work should read this book. It is a refreshingly practical primer on how towns, cities, and regions can create a shared vision and measurable impact.”—Janice C. Kreamer, president and CEO, Greater Kansas City Community Foundation“Innovation and entrepreneurship have always been the driving forces behind the success of U.S. commerce and industry.Smart Communitiesclearly demonstrates with real and compelling examples that these same forces are just as important in the public and nonprofit sectors and are making a difference in communities all over America.”—Michael Rubinger, president, Local Initiatives Support Corporation“Everyone who is working to bring about positive change in their communities, from college presidents to next-door neighbors, will be grateful that Suzanne Morse is sharing her vast experience in community building in this highly readable and helpful book. It provides a roadmap for any community, large or small, that wants to create a better future by working togeth er for effective change.”—Elizabeth L. Hollander, executive director, Campus Compact“Using the insight gained from having a ‘front row seat watching community change,’ Suzanne Morse has distilled those observations into a strategy for success. Her practical formula builds upon the good that exists in communities now to help them transform their neighborhoods and the nation—with principles, planning, and perseverance.”—Angela Glover Blackwell, president, PolicyLink, and coauthor,Searching for the Uncommon Good“Rare is the book which weaves civic stories with wise counsel about what we must do to foster communities that present and future generations will respect and hold dear. This book speaks to the aspirations of all American citizens who lead, volunteer, and give in the places they live.”—Gregg Behr, president, The Forbes Funds, and founding director, The Content of Our Character Project“The book is a Matisse drawing of communities¾fresh, concise, and very, very timely.”—Frieda Garcia, former president, United South End Settlements