Description
Organized in 1990 as a traditional neighborhood association covering half the township, eventually was reduced in size following a reorganization in 1993 which also changed the name to better describe the area of interest.
Following growth of influence and expertise in leading the community's ability to represent members and residents in multiple issues, and recognizing the need to be proactive in addressing nearby community's challenges, the association expanded again to include approximately the central portion of the township's neighborhoods. The intention is to encourage and empower new leaders to take on responsibilities in each local area, including possibly forming new independent or membership based chapters of GCCA.
On learning about Asset Based Community Development philosophies this concept was embraced and is practiced by broadening the scope and focus of the association to communicate and collaborate with all stakeholders so as to improve socio-economic conditions in the area.
Today, GCCA is known as 'Greater' Garden City Civic Association and is involved in establishing an 'Asset Bank' of all known and still-hidden assets within the community to support each other's goals and work that share common threads. It is accomplishing this through partnering with old, established organizations of every description; educational, business, faith-based, social service, etc.
Most recently it has created a new committee(W*E*S*T (Wayne Economic Strategies for Tomorrow) Action oommittee of area businesses focused initially on West Washington St. along with elected officials, and others with intentions of securing public and private investment directed toward physical and psychological improvements as a demonstration of economic support in the community and it's people.
WEST Action Committee will eventually be spun off to form it's own business-focused nonprofit organization as a founding member of the Asset Bank of Wayne Townshi, a compendium of local stakeholder organizations and individuals.
