According to the research from the Urban Institute of Social Services in Elbląg, Zawodzie is one of the five most neglected neighborhoods in the city. Members of this community exhibit a very low level of civic engagement. According to our observations, one of the reasons for that lack of engagement is absence of space for meetings and developing of local initiatives. Our experience suggests that the local government rarely communicates with the citizens of Zawodzie.

We will develop a neighborhood partnership composed of active citizens, civic organizations and entrepreneurs. We will file a petition on its behalf to the President of the Elbląg, asking for a formation of the neighborhood council and we will designate a person responsible for regular communication with the local government. We will also run a series of workshops and meetings for the members of the neighborhood partnership on leadership skills and implementing grassroots, civic initiatives. The participants will gain practical knowledge on how to engage in local initiatives and how to incorporate environmental protection elements into these initiatives. We will conduct consultations on the development of the neighborhood and organize citizen cafes where members of the community will be able to talk about issues important to them and their environment. We will also have activities for children and their parents, giving them a chance to pursue their passions and artistic talents, as well as learn about ecology. Together with the members of the community we will conduct neighborly initiatives and civic actions regarding courtyards and public squares revitalization, barter markets, communal gardens, picnics, and outdoor cinema.