Mike Green specializes in community development, embodying decades of experience. Currently based in Denver, Mike’s professional journey began in small business, where he managed three operations before shifting to social work. Influenced by his daughter Annie’s experiences, he developed a passion for fostering inclusive communities. He collaborated with the notable John McKnight on asset-based community development models, emphasizing the importance of community and relationships. Mike, now 78, shares his expertise globally, promoting the integration of service and community life.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode sponsored by the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, podcast host Chris Liuzzo engages with community development expert Mike Green. The discussion, rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, delves into the heart of person-centered planning and community integration. Through his journey from small business owner to social work and community advocacy, Mike shares how personal experiences, particularly with his daughter Annie, shaped his approach to community building.

Mike Green explores the concept of Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD), illustrating how genuine community connections can bring about meaningful change. He emphasizes that true power lies in relationships, not in meticulously crafted plans, and shares key strategies for building inclusive communities that welcome diverse contributions. Through poignant stories and thought-provoking observations, the episode underscores how person-centered work is mirrored in successful community integration, pivotal for fostering greater inclusivity. Mike closes with practical advice for families seeking to navigate and improve community interactions.

Key Takeaways:

• Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) focuses on leveraging existing community assets to foster stronger connections and achieve positive change.
• Person-centered work mirrors successful community development techniques, emphasizing co-creation and discovery of individual and communal assets.
• Establishing a two-way support bridge between human services and community integration is essential for effective inclusion.
• Community members, often unfamiliar with the support needs of individuals with disabilities, must be guided on how to accommodate and welcome diverse abilities.
• Engaging everyday community networks is crucial for fostering inclusive environments where everyone’s contributions are valued.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Power is in relationships, not in plans.” – Mike Green
2. “The problem is that people don’t know they need Annie, her contribution, her gifts, her presence in their life.” – Mike Green
3. “We need love and power and that power without love is abusive, love without power is anemic.” – Mike Green
4. “Every human being’s lived experience is that power is in relationships.” – Mike Green
5. “It’s about discovery, not about manufacture.” – Mike Green

Resources:

• New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation
• Asset-Based Community Development Institute
• John McKnight – Co-founder of the ABCD Institute

To dive deeper into how person-centered work can truly transform communities and individual lives, listen to this engaging episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on person-centeredness from our podcast series!

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