Resident Council Meeting

Purpose of the Activity

The Resident Council Meeting is a cornerstone of a resident-driven community. This monthly gathering provides a formal platform for residents to express opinions, share ideas, and participate in the decision-making processes that affect their daily lives. By taking on roles like president, secretary, or member, residents utilize valuable life skills in leadership, communication, and organization. This activity fosters a sense of ownership and purpose, strengthens the community, and creates a vital communication link between residents and staff management.

Materials Needed

- A large meeting table and enough comfortable, accessible chairs for all attendees.
- Printed copies of the meeting agenda in large font.
- Printed copies of the previous meeting's minutes in large font.
- A sign-in sheet and pens.
- A notepad or laptop for the person recording the minutes.
- A suggestion box to be brought to the meeting.
- A whiteboard or flip chart with markers.
- An easy-to-use microphone and speaker system, if needed for the room size or for residents with hearing impairments.
- A small table for refreshments.
- Optional: Water, coffee, tea, and light snacks like cookies or fruit.
- Optional: Name tags or table placards for elected council officers.

Estimated Duration

45 - 60 minutes.

Ideal Group Size

The meeting is open to all residents. A core "council" of 8-15 elected or volunteer residents often leads the discussion, but attendance from the general resident population can range from a few to 30 or more, depending on the community size and the topics being discussed.