This is a sponsored post
A friend brought Corinne Ho to her local Canoga Park Neighborhood Council meeting because Corinne is the type of person who is known for giving back.
Once there, she realized what many volunteers across Los Angeles have come to understand; Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils are a great way to to help and create change in the community.
We are working with Empower LA to get the word out about the Neighborhood Councils and how important they are to having a vibrant and thriving Los Angeles. This post is the fourth in a series where we highlight local moms like Corinne who have served or are serving on their local councils.
There are 99 Neighborhood Councils all over Los Angeles where from 7 to individuals are elected to the volunteer positions (meaning they are not paid, unlike the City Council). Anyone who lives, works or owns property in an area can run to serve on a Neighborhood Council, which form the grassroots level of city government. Click here to learn more about the Neighborhood Councils and to meet the other women in the series.
Neighborhood Council Elections are happening now through June. Find out who is running for a spot on the council in your neighborhood and find out when and where to vote at EmpowerLA.
Corinne Ho served on the Canoga Park Neighborhood Council. The mother of a 12-year-old daughter works as a homeless advocate.
1) How did you first hear about the Neighborhood Council?
I first heard about the NC when a member at the time invited me to attend the meeting and see how I could help the community.
2) What made you decide to run for neighborhood council? Was there an issue happening in your neighborhood that you wanted resolved?
Once I understood what the Neighborhood Council system was all about, I decided to run because I realized that it was the perfect venue to address various issues affecting the quality of life in my neighborhood.
3) What is an average meeting like?
A meeting is as interesting as the issues addressed and the community attends to express their views on the specific issue or an issue that they think needs to be addressed.
4) What has been most surprising to you about the experience?
One of the most surprising things I learned is that things take time, that it follows an established process, but that it is also the way to effect change.
5) What is something that people might not understand about the Neighborhood Council?
People might not know that everything we do is all done on a voluntary basis and that things to do take time and needs persistence.
6) How do balance raising kids with your work on the council?
It does take a balancing act and family support is crucial in the equation.
7) What do your children think of mom being in the council? Do you talk to them about giving back to the community?
Children are proud that their moms and/or dads are on the council making a difference. I have taught my daughter that it’s important to participate and be part of the solution rather than watching passively on the sidelines.
I think if I had not been on the Neighborhood Council, she would not be who she is today. She really understands that when something happens, whether it’s at school or in the community, it’s our duty to not just stand around and watch things happen, but rather, be part of the process.
8) Do you think Moms are uniquely qualified to help their neighborhoods? Why?
Yes, moms are uniquely qualified because moms are doers, movers and shakers. Moms want to understand what issues are and tackle them.
This post is part of a sponsored campaign with Empower LA.
