Family Re-Union 8: Family and Community

FAMILY RE-UNION 8:
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY
June 21-22, 1999

Family Re-Union 8 focused on the interdependence of family and community. As we approach the new millennium, there is an increased longing for a sense of "community" and a growing concern that the pace of life and the mobility of people are contributing to stress and family isolation. Decreasing distance from family and friends, finding affordable and inviting housing near jobs, maximizing recreation and community options, improving safety and security at home and in the neighborhood, decreasing social isolation and loneliness are goals most families want to achieve. This is not just a misplaced nostalgia for times past. It is supported by new research which indicates that, by every measure, positive outcomes for families and children increase with improvements in the quality of life in their communities.

As part of the yearlong planning process, Vice President and Mrs. Gore, sponsors and staff met with national and local experts to discuss such questions as:

• What do strong communities do for families and how can families strengthen communities? How can we involve all generations?
• What are the community institutions that are most critical to families and children? What is the role of schools, faith-based organizations, the workplace and health centers in creating community?
• What are the factors that make communities livable and attractive to families? What is the role of architectural design and urban planning? How do we stop urban sprawl? What are good strategies to reinvigorate older communities?
• How do we ensure the safety of families and children at home, at school, at work and in the community?
• How can we successfully combine human and economic development?
• How can technology, communications and transportation enhance family and community life?
• How do artistic, educational and recreational activities strengthen families and communities?
• How do we support local initiatives without destroying them or over-riding local control? How do we help communities hold local programs accountable for good results?
• What federal, state and local policy changes would enhance family and community life?

Local leaders with grassroots experience joined state and national experts at Family Re-Union 8 on site in Nashville, and through the satellite broadcast, citizens participated in community conversations at down link sites around the country. On the satellite broadcast, participants at several sites presented their findings, suggestions and experience. This conference, like those that have preceded it, will lead to new research, policy and program initiatives in both the public and private sectors. Exemplary models and best practices will be implemented with local variations, and policy makers will learn how to adapt to new realities and remove barriers to family and community strength.