Forward - Community Group - First Meeting

GROUP OVERVIEW:

Forward is a community group to support individual and collective transition to sustainable living, co-coordinated by Jessica Radovich and Matt Bryant, in partnership with Transition Whatcom.

Forward will meet every two weeks in Bellingham to share a meal and engage the head, heart, and hands in the work of transition. Our goals are to reduce our personal and collective impacts on the environment and build community resilience. Membership is open to residents of Bellingham and surrounding areas who are interested in engaging with others in the work of addressing the climate crisis in meaningful and practical ways. Forward is a welcoming space inclusive of all abilities, ages, identities, and resource levels.

What is expected of group members:

• A commitment to reducing personal impacts toward a 2025 goal
• A willingness to engage thoughtfully in learning activities
• An openness to engage earnestly in personal support exercises
• A commitment to participating in at least one action group

What group members can expect:

• Shared meals
• New Friends
• Authentic community
• Service and leadership opportunities
• Encouragement and support
• A meaningful way of responding to the climate crisis

Our first meeting will be April 24th. Details are below. Inquiries can be sent to forward.bellingham@gmail.com.

MEETING DETAILS:

The first Forward meeting will be held on Sunday, April 24^th, from 4-6pm at the North Picnic Shelter at Cornwall Park. Site details are available on the Parks Department website at https://cob.org/services/recreation/rental-facilities/picnic-shelters/cornwall-north-shelter-2.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend, whether you’re clear on your interest in the group or not. The purpose of this meeting is to provide a sense of what the group will be like, so you’ll know what you’re getting yourself into if you choose to attend future meetings.

We’ll start our time together with a group meal - if you’re able, please bring a vegetarian dish to share. All Forward events will be zero waste, so please avoid packaged goods and bring foods in reusable containers. Additionally, please bring your own plate, utensil, and water bottle.

We’ll then do introductions, provide a group overview, and then have time for Q&A and discussion. There will also be live music starting after the meeting, which you’re welcome to stay to enjoy.

Besides the food items listed above, and maybe paper and pencil to take notes, you don’t need to bring anything other than your open mind and heart. Please note you may wish to bring a coat to stay warm, as we’ll be outside for the entirety of our meeting.

You’re strongly encouraged to use alternative transportation or carpool to attend this meeting. If you need help figuring out transportation, get in touch. We’re hoping to be able to offer the option of attending this meeting remotely, and if that’s your preference, get in touch.

Questions can be sent to forward.bellingham@gmail.com.