RECORD STAFF

Whidbey Institute in Clinton presents “We’re In This Together: the 2nd Annual Thriving Communities Conference,” convening members of diverse communities from Thursday, March 21 through Saturday, March 23.

Through the lens of local economy, participants  explore how a community can meet the needs of individuals, families and organizations, while also nurturing a sense of belonging, a capacity for resilience and the ability to thrive.

The conference features a series of video clips, filmed by the Whidbey Institute, that demonstrate replicable examples of neighbors doing exceptional work.

These stories include a  commercial space collaborative created for intentional startups, a cycling-courier company that delivers goods across town, a small business re-investment network, and many more.

Last year the event featured seven local organizations to demonstrate how food ties the community together: Good Cheer, Greenbank Farm, Goosefoot, Whidbey Island Nourishes, South Whidbey Commons, Soups On, Senior Services and Whidbey Institute’s Learning from the Land Program.

This year the scope was expanded to include Bellingham, Port Townsend and Portland, each highlighting unique and poignant examples of how local economy can bring communities together to thrive.

All are welcome to network, exchange ideas, engage in meaningful dialogue and be inspired as strategies for viable change are explored along with growth that will sustain the well-being of everyone.

Visit www.thrivingcommunities.org for more information.