Why is the Coalition using PB?
"The Coalition is an equity-based organization that wants to work with the community rather than for it. We believe that the best way to achieve equity in a community is to include the community in the narrative and go through constant cycles of learning. We want the individuals that are in this community to be a key part of the decisions that the Coalition makes so that everything we do is done in an equitable way. For these reasons, the Coalition invited the community members of Archuleta decide to decide how $20,000 of funding can be spent. PB allows for community members to make direct changes in their community and participate at many different levels, making it a very equity-oriented process that aligns with the Coalitions goals." - Piedra
What steering committee members have to say about PB?
"Before I was asked to be on the Archuleta County Food Coalition Participatory Budgeting Steering Committee, I had never even heard of the words “participatory budgeting.” Now, after working with this process for several months, I couldn’t be happier to have gotten involved. I feel that the PB process really encompasses the needs of the entire community which, in my opinion, is the most equitable thing of all. Through PB, I believe the community’s major food necessities and problems are coming to light, and will hopefully be vastly improved within the coming months of implementation. The best way that members of the Archuleta County community (like you!) can help is to vote for four of our nine proposals which are described in-depth on the Coalition’s website. You can also register to vote on the website too. Our community is counting on all voters to decide the best ways to help our local food system, so go register, and make your voice heard!" - Nell
What proposal developers have to say about PB?
"My proposal was from a personal experience commuting with my own kids from Dulce to Pagosa Springs. The committee has been very helpful with putting together my proposal. It has been an eye opener and a learning experience but overall blessed to have had the opportunity to make a proposal that would help others (family and the kids) with food resources. I know from having kids, that after school, they would all be hungry with having had lunch so early in the school day - a big time gap and a small snack in between, never filling up! This proposal helps build a relationship with the Dulce community and the Pagosa Springs community working to help the kids of the future by providing some food to help out in some way. The overall experience has been positive and I want to continue being able to provide support and resources to others in need, because I always appreciate when someone takes time out of their life to offer help and support. Since I have been a resident in Pagosa Springs, it has always been a positive and friendly atmosphere for me and my family. My kids love living here in Pagosa Springs and thankful for what the school has to offer them (food and sports) and being in a friendly community. So I thank everyone for their time in helping make this happen and all the people in the community for watching the videos for all the proposals. The PB process has been a windows of opportunity for all who had an idea that would help the community of Archuleta." - Joline
What voters have to say about PB and the proposal?
"It's not often that your vote has a direct impact on change that is going to be implemented. That's what makes Participatory Budgeting so great! You have the opportunity to support individuals in your community through your votes for the projects that you feel will make a difference. And, watch as these ideas come to life. It's very valuable to be working in conjunction with your community to support their work, and I'm very excited for the opportunity to be involved in PB." - Darian