BUILDING THE SILVER SPRING NETWORK

Our community-wide network is the way we connect all the dots of people, ideas, and actions – to help residents who share a common vision and values to be interconnected, and to magnify those connections through common affiliation. Please read more about our approach to network-building and why we feel it is important in a community as diverse as Silver Spring.

The Silver Spring Network, and sub-networks in the neighborhoods of Long Branch and Wheaton, are providing opportunities for residents to meet one another, share stories, engage in dialogue, exchange information, open doors to resources, and collaborate for change. Here are the major activities that we sustain for our network.

• Network Orientation: An opportunity for residents to learn about the network and the ideas behind it, and to begin making connections with others who want to build and be a part of a thriving, multicultural community.


• Networking Nights: Simple social events to help neighbors meet and share information.


• Network Action Support Nights: Gatherings for residents who have action ideas to have a sounding board, receive technical assistance, make connections, and seek out others to help them take action for positive change.


• Issue Forums: Events designed to explore important topics in the community for learning and dialogue, including content issues like housing and public transit or identity issues like race and immigration.


• Annual Events: Large community gatherings that celebrate community (the Spirit of Silver Spring) and spark connections and action (Silver Spring Action).


• Network Guides: Each year, a group of 8-10 individuals comes together to become stewards of the IMPACT Network, building relationships in the community, carrying out these events, and supporting network members in taking action. Network Guides take part in leadership training sessions and receive stipends for their work.