How We Do It

NeighborSpace's many successes are a result of successful partnerships with local community residents, businesses, private organizations and public agencies.

Here's how we do it...

Across the City, committed neighbors have come together to turn vacant lots, railway, river embankments, and other open space into gardens and parks for community food production and beautification. Over time, some have even developed educational activities and events that expand the use, appreciation and value of these special spaces.

When one of these community groups becomes concerned about ownership issues and their site's future they can turn to NeighborSpace. In essence, these groups are applying to have their site acquired by NeighborSpace.

Each application is carefully reviewed under criteria that include:

• Feasibility for site acquisition which depends to a large extent on the current owner's interest in selling or donating the land to NeighborSpace,
• Evidence of long-term viability which depends on local need for this open space, and evidence of resources and leadership to support its continued role in community life, and
• Environmental integrity of the property.

If the application and site qualifies, NeighborSpace pursues acquisition of the property.

Once a property is acquired NeighborSpace will ask the applicant to enter into a long-term management agreement. The applicant agrees to become the "NeighborSpace Garden Leader," providing local leadership for the continued effective use of the land. A local nonprofit organization or other group familiar with the community and its needs and committed to the site also signs on as the "NeighborSpace Community Organizational Partner." At the same time, NeighborSpace begins providing basic liability insurance for those who use the site.