Understanding the relationship between community, economic and environmental outcomes while achieving equitable distribution of resources and opportunities in our neighborhoods will be the topic of the next GAINS (Greater Akron Innovation Network for Sustainability) Wednesday, June 13, at the Summit Lake Community Center, 380 W. Crosier St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the free program begins at 6:15 p.m.
Speakers for the evening include: Tamiyka Rose, Health and Equity Ambassador for the Mayor of the City of Akron, speaking on the relationship between health equity and neighborhood design; Anika Ame, a local artist and local shop owner of Alchemy, will give a talk on the West Akron Revitalization Project on Copley Rd.; and community organizers from across Akron, including but not limited to leaders from BMe and The Big Love Network, will facilitate circle discussion on the cross sectioning of sustainability, economic revitalization, urban planning and health equity.
Rose, former vice president of Government Relations for The MetroHealth System, advises Akron Mayor Daniel Horrigan and helps lead Akron’s efforts to decrease racial and ethnic disparities, particularly in premature births and infant mortality. Her efforts seek to give Akron residents opportunity for an equal chance at a long, healthy and successful life regardless of race, economic status or zip code.
Ame was born and raised in West Akron and grew up in her grandfather’s barber shop on Copley Road when it was a thriving business district. Through her work as a health coach and artist, she understands the importance of people’s health and its connection to the built and natural environment. The West Akron Revitalization Project is a collaborative community-led project that Ame helped launch to revitalize the Copley Road business district after decades of re-design challenges, economic decline and health disparities.
According to STAR Communities (Sustainability Tools for Assessing & Rating Communities), a national third-party rating system for cities and counties, specific equity issues for communities include: economic well-being, housing, education, health, safe neighborhoods, transportation and arts/culture.
Health disparities or inequities, are types of unfair health differences closely linked with social, economic or environmental disadvantages that adversely affect groups of people, as stated by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
GAINS is a local gathering of sustainability practitioners who focus on advancing innovative ideas and sustainable values and practices in the marketplace. The salon-style meetings are free and interactive and open to anyone interested in learning about and engaging with community partners on the leading edge of sustainability.
For info, visit www.facebook.com/GAIN4Sustainability.
