Community Collaboration Makes a Change

Local Community Development Foundation “Renaissance-Agro” successfully implemented a project funded by the US Embassy Small Grants Program.  The project aimed at involving residents of the village of Gizhenka in  Slavgorod District, Mogilev region, in the process of identifying local community problems, developing solutions and improving the quality of their living environment.  On August 10, the NGO reported the project results and shared best practices at a round table with the participation of the district authorities, representatives of local governmental organizations, entrepreneurs and residents.  The major project outcome, according to the participants, was establishing an efficient partnership that harnessed the collaborative efforts of all sectors of the local community and  provided the right tools and resources that allowed local residents to build a new playground, renovate and fence off a cemetery, as well as improve a pasture for privately owned cattle.  The project is a good example of how people working together can make their community more successful and sustainable.