PERHAPS THE biggest success story in Hamilton’s ongoing renaissance is the activation of the residents within the city’s 17 neighborhoods. Since the inception of 17STRONG, the city has benefitted from individuals creating change inside their neighborhood.
To honor those individuals and to inspire others, 17STRONG has sponsored two different events in years past: the Hamilton Neighborhoods Summit and the
Celebration Breakfast. Now, those events will become one.
17STRONG’s third annual Hamilton Neighborhoods Summit will be held on March 1st at Hamilton High School and will now include a lunch to celebrate the 2024 Microgrant recipient.
“[The Summit] is an event to further engage residents of Hamilton with 17STRONG and all the resources that we’re connected with. To make sure our residents are aware of what’s available and how to get involved,” said Joan Stidham, who is one of the event organizers. “The goal is for residents to leave the Summit with a plan, a new idea, a new resource, a new way to connect, a new way to contribute.”
For those that have never attended, one thing will be abundantly clear, and that is those at the Summit all have a similar goal in mind—making Hamilton a better place. “I think it’s a really positive environment where you’re around people that think Hamilton is fantastic. And so the synergy with all those people in a space is amazing,” said Stidham. “It is very inviting, I believe, easy to attend if you have no experience, and walk away with a feeling like it’s been a great way to spend your day.”
Each year, the Summit takes on a different theme; this year’s theme is “You Are Welcome.” It will emphasize the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in building a stronger and more connected Hamilton. Perhaps no theme better encapsulates the vibe of the event. “
We want to encourage people to attend. If there are any barriers, we are willing to work through them,” said Stidham. “If transportation is a barrier, we’re working on getting bussing from some key locations to and from the Summit. We are incorporating a way to be more inclusive with our Spanish speaking community, so there will be options for translation and other ways to engage, even if English is not your first language.”
The Summit will kick off with a Key Note presentation by City Manager Craig Bucheit, followed by multiple breakout sessions, which were topics recommended directly by residents. Some sessions include: supporting Hamilton’s most vulnerable residents, housing affordability and insecurity, engaging citizens from all Hamilton neighborhoods, ensuring Hamilton is family and kid-friendly, opportunities for families to serve and engage, welcoming all to the table, youth engaging youth in community leadership, encouraging physical activity for everyone, small businesses as community activators, ensuring everyone feels welcome downtown, how to engage and involve residents, and anything else that would fit into the theme of “You Are Welcome.”
As previously mentioned, this year’s Summit will include a Microgrant Celebration Lunch, a portion dedicated to highlighting the achievements of the 2024 Microgrant recipients. In addition, there will also be an awards ceremony honoring outstanding contributions in our community. Expect to learn 17STRONG’s Small Business of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, two Rising Youth Leader Awards, and the Kathleen Klink Award for Neighborhood Leadership.
Microgrants have been some of the most exciting success stories from 17STRONG’s efforts.
“It was just exciting to me because we were able to empower residents and give them funds, which is a great combination,” said Stidham, who formally served as the Chair of Microgrants on the 17STRONG Advisory Board.
All of the information on how to apply for a Microgrant can be found on 17STRONG’s website. Individual grant awards range from $500 to $2,500. The website describes the program as the following:
“The purpose of the 17STRONG Neighborhoods Microgrant Program is to serve the residents of Hamilton by providing materials or reimbursable financial support for programs, projects, or events that promote citizen engagement, enhance the beautification of the neighborhood, improve safety within the community, or address neighborhood needs and aspirations.”
The Summit will be at Hamilton High School on March 1. While it is an almost all day affair, you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired. Tickets will be available beginning January 10.
You can find more information at 17stronghamilton.org/summit
