Our Managing Director, Chloe Keith and Growth and Performance Manager, Ben Hammond recently attended the ATCM Summer School, returning with valuable insights that could transform how we think about community engagement and place-making. Here are their top five takeaways from this inspiring event.
1. See Your Place Through Fresh Eyes
One of the most powerful shifts we can make is becoming tourists in our own towns and communities. Too often, we become blind to the excellence happening right on our doorstep. By viewing our places through visitors’ eyes, we can better advocate for the incredible work and opportunities that already exist locally. User-generated content (UGC) becomes a powerful tool here, helping us showcase authentic experiences and stories. The key message? Our towns and places can’t just be “local shops for local people” – they need to welcome and inspire everyone who encounters them.
2. Make Accessibility a Priority
True community connection requires events and spaces that are genuinely accessible to all. This means considering both physical accessibility and affordability. Two factors that are often overlooked in event planning. When we remove barriers to participation, we create opportunities for deeper, more meaningful community connections that benefit everyone.
3. Bridge Online and Offline Communities
The digital age presents unique opportunities to bring online communities into real-life spaces, creating an ultimate sense of belonging and involvement. The question we should ask ourselves is: what moments and memories are people creating in our towns and places? How can we nurture both virtual connections and physical experiences that complement each other?
4. Celebrate Pride of Place
Changing perceptions starts with fostering genuine pride in our spaces and communities. This transformation can be achieved by celebrating local history and actively promoting positivity. When residents and visitors alike feel pride in a place, it becomes a catalyst for positive change and growth.
5. Think Beyond the Present
Perhaps most importantly, we must remember that many of our places existed long before us and will continue long after we’re gone. This perspective shift encourages us to inspire young minds and create lasting legacies. Rather than focusing solely on immediate needs, we should consider how our actions today will benefit future generations and preserve the essence of what makes our communities special.
These insights from the ATCM Summer School remind us that building stronger communities requires intentional effort, inclusive thinking, and a long-term vision. By implementing these principles, we can create places that truly serve and inspire everyone who encounters them.
