2009-2010 Vision into Action (VIA) Coalition Steering Committee Application

The Vision into Action (VIA) Coalition—a broad, community-led alliance of organizations, businesses, neighborhoods, government and individuals acting collectively and collaboratively to implement Portland's community vision—is recruiting up to 10 new members to join its 2009-2010 Steering Committee.

Community members are asked to submit a letter of no more than two single-sided pages in length (single-spaced, 12 point font) with the information and answers to questions listed below. The deadline is Friday, February 13, 2009 at 5:00 PM.

Applications should include: Name

Address

Phone Number

E-mail address

  • A brief list of professional, volunteer and personal experience
  • Two references (with contact information) who are knowledgeable about the applicant’s skills and perspective related to serving on the VIA Coalition Steering Committee.

In addition, applicants are asked to respond to the following questions:

  1. The Steering Committee will be reflective of Portland’s diversity and broad range of perspectives. Please tell us briefly how your background and experience contribute to perspectives you would bring to the Coalition.
  2. What makes Portland special to you?
  3. From your perspective, what would be a successful outcome of this Coalition effort?
  4. Please give us a brief example of a time you have worked in a group setting with various viewpoints and communication styles. How did you support understanding among the group and help promote action?

Applications can be submitted online or by e-mail fax, mail or in person to the following:

Online Application:

Contact: Stephanie D. Stephens

E-mail:

Fax: (503) 823-7800

Address: 1900 SW 4th Avenue, Suite 7100

Portland, Oregon97201

For more information, contact Vision into Action Project Manager Stephanie D. Stephens at (503) 823-9588.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Vision into Action Coalition?

The Vision into Action (VIA) Coalition is a broad, community-led alliance of organizations, businesses, government and individuals acting collectively and collaboratively to ensure implementation of Portland's community vision.

The Coalition’s purposes are to:

  • Convene action groups to solve problems/address big issues in the vision;
  • Provide support for community-led projects by a variety of means, which may include grants and technical assistance, education and outreach, and advocacy training;
  • Ensure alignment of government policies and programs with the vision;
  • Track progress toward the vision; and
  • Ensure sustainable sources of funding for the above.

Isn’t the vision being implemented by the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability through the Portland Plan?

The Bureau of Planning and Sustainability is using the community vision as the basis for planning currently underway. Collectively referred to as “The Portland Plan,” these planning efforts – including an update of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, a citywide economic development strategy, a new plan for the downtown area, and many others – will set the policies and strategies to guide the growth and development of Portland over the next 30 years.

However, the Portland Plan will not cover everything in the vision, nor will it produce immediate actions. The Vision into Action Coalition has been organized to oversee vision implementation and initiate/support community-based action on the vision.

What is the role of the VIA Coalition Steering Committee?

The VIA Coalition Steering Committee is a leadership group 20 individuals, like a Board of Directors, responsible for strategic direction and evaluation of the Vision into Action Coalition.

Who May Serve on the VIA Coalition Steering Committee?

The VIA Coalition Steering Committee is comprised of 20 people who reflect Portlanders’ diverse cultures, perspectives and experiences. Committee members include business people, artists, educators, neighborhood advocates, community members, andgovernment employees. Those interested in serving on the Steering Committee are asked to apply for consideration (for instructions on how to apply, see below).

What are the responsibilities of the VIA Coalition Steering Committee?

1. Primary Roles and Responsibilities of Vision into Action Steering Committee:

  • Set the strategic direction of the Coalition
  • Choose major VIA Coalition initiatives/action areas
  • Monitor achievement of goals and objectives
  • Create committees that can carry out work plan
  • Oversee Vision into Action Community Grants Program
  • Ensure vision continuity through leadership changes, both internal to the VIA Coalition and in City government
  • Measure and evaluate progress toward community vision and VIA Coalition goals

2. Joint Responsibilities with other Coalition committees and staff:

  • Help plan agendas for Steering Committee and public meetings.
  • Leverage funds for VIA initiatives
  • Represent the Coalition and vision to the public
  • Maintain and develop relationships with elected officials, bureaus, community organizations and businesses
  • Recruit project-specific partners

3. Provide input on the tasks of other committees assigned to:

  • Manage grants process and select grantees
  • Plan and host an annual report back to the community
  • Prepare reports on program status and performance

How will members be selected?

A selection committee of current Steering Committee members and bureau representatives will select the majority of Steering Committee members. City Commissioners may also wish to appoint a representative to the VIA Coalition Steering Committee.

What qualities and qualifications should VIA Coalition Steering Committee members have?

Committee members should have the following qualities:

  • Ability to look beyond today’s issues to consider long-term possibilities
  • Knowledge of multiple issues that affect Portland’s future based on personal, volunteer and/or professional experience, with the ability to think and work beyond the perspective and interests of organizations with which they are affiliated
  • Interest in pursuing new ideas and approaches
  • Ability to work collaboratively with people of diverse perspectives and experiences
  • Effective communication skills
  • Respected by coworkers, volunteers or community group members as a team player and creative problem solver

VIA Coalition Steering Committee members will be characterized by their interest in:

  • Exploring and understanding Portland’s community vision and values
  • Diverse perspectives and experiences
  • Learning more about community and business groups, nonprofits, and local government
  • Translating vision into goals and actions
  • Energizing Portlanders to participate in actualizing our community vision

How much time will it take to be on the VIA Coalition Steering Committee?

For 2008, there will be up to 10 positions open—with either a one or two year term. Because the VIA Coalition is a newly formed alliance, members of the Steering Committee will be asked to make a significant time commitment to the Coalition development, which shall include monthly meetings (3 hours monthly, 36 hours annually), prep time (2 hours monthly, 24, hours annually)(and semi-annual Steering Committee retreats (up to 8 hours each, 16 hours annually), plus any subcommittee work (time commitment varies by committee) that you choose to join.Total estimated time commitment: 60 hours annually for meetings and prep; 16 hours annually for retreats; subcommittee work (if desired—not a requirement).

Assistance to Committee Members

  • Special accommodations will be made for people with disabilities
  • Childcare assistance will be provided
  • Translation/interpretation will be made available

For more information, contact Vision into Action Project Manager Stephanie D. Stephens at (503) 823-9588.