We live in a world that often believes that bigger is better - more profit and income - larger homes and communities. That list is BIG and it seems to be growing all the time.This past week I found … [Read more...] about Crime Prevention and Capitalism: What’s the rub? Part I
Peacemaking Circles – Part II
by Dianna BennettCommunity Engagement using Peacemaking Circles is not a novel concept, us European types are just slow learners. Circles have been used over the millennia by many first nations around … [Read more...] about Peacemaking Circles – Part II
Peacemaking Circles
by Dianna BennettWhat are Peacemaking Circles you ask? They are a restorative practice used in Restorative Justice, along with having a few other pretty amazing applications…so stay tuned. … [Read more...] about Peacemaking Circles
More Prevention less Police
With 2016 well underway I'm reminded of how much work we still have ahead of us. While there is no question we are making some great progress - many municipalities continue to struggle with issues … [Read more...] about More Prevention less Police
Art Alley making its mark on streetscape and street life
Street Art is alive and well in Red Deer, Alberta. The Art Alley project continues this year after being a big hit in our city last year. Art Alley is a collaborative project between The City of Red … [Read more...] about Art Alley making its mark on streetscape and street life
Create caring community
What inspires us is often what drives us to do some of our very best work. Inspiration can come in many forms such as a mentor, friend or family members, an event or maybe even a great film. If we’re … [Read more...] about Create caring community
Art Alley project shows potential in crime prevention
Can we design out crime and reduce the potential for violence, property crime and social disorder in the communities where we live? Can something as simple and 'soft' as street art be part of the … [Read more...] about Art Alley project shows potential in crime prevention
Social development partnership in “New Hope,” Dominican Republic
A new social development and crime prevention partnership involving a number of Canadian resource people is underway in the Dominican Republic. The planning stages began in 2011 when I met with … [Read more...] about Social development partnership in “New Hope,” Dominican Republic
10 Tips for launching a street piano in your neighborhood
We have had great fun helping a number of communities develop street piano projects. Street pianos are great not just for the music they bring to a city street or downtown neighborhood but for their … [Read more...] about 10 Tips for launching a street piano in your neighborhood