"GAIN-GEMENT" emerges as an interactive game designed to mirror the essence of "The Engagement Toolkit" conceived by the Department of Strategic Initiatives in Gainesville. This toolkit, holds a primary objective: to cultivate collaboration with the local community through an approach rooted in equity and inclusivity. Tailored for utilization by city employees and community leaders, the toolkit envisions dismantling hierarchical power structures, striving to establish meaningful connections between city officials and residents.
The genesis of "GAIN-GEMENT" is grounded in extensive research, encompassing attendance at city events, active participation in community meetings, interviews, and engagement in "the city community builders" workshops. This multifaceted exploration informed the game's creation, simplifying the intricate details of the toolkit into an engaging format. The game serves as an enjoyable and entertaining medium, strategically integrated into city meetings with local residents. By gamifying the toolkit's principles, "GAIN-GEMENT" facilitates a more accessible and dynamic way to convey its concepts during community gatherings.
In the board game, various facets of community engagement events are explored, providing a tangible and relatable experience for participants. It becomes a tool for initiating dialogue, fostering understanding, and promoting active involvement in local initiatives. The overarching aim is to transform the sometimes daunting prospect of community engagement into a more approachable and enjoyable endeavor, ultimately strengthening the bonds between city officials and residents. "GAIN-GEMENT" acts as a bridge, connecting the aspirations outlined in the toolkit with the lived experiences of the community, transforming the vision of inclusive engagement into a tangible, interactive reality.
Upon completion of the game, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Acquire knowledge about diverse methods of engagement.
- Grasp an understanding of the resources at their disposal.
- Cultivate relationships with city officials.
