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Change Agency Network
The
Change Agency Network provides continued support for past participants of the
Center’s class on How to Be an Agent of Change in Your Circle of
Influence. The network offers workshops, trainings, and gatherings.
The Center has worked with a total of fourteen Agent of Change classes of 10 to 15
participants each. This growing network of agents is making a difference
in the culture of Portland,
which is a composite of the values, attitudes, and habits of its citizens and
myriad circles of influence. As an agent of change works on a specific
project within a confined circle of influence, he or she is also pulling the
broader community along the path to a sustainable future.
Fall 2008 Change Agency Network Events:
Change Agency Network Gathering:
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Location: TBA, Portland
Speaker: TBA
Description: The evening will consist of a speaker and plenty of time for discussion and networking. Refreshments will be available.
Change Agency Network Workshop – The Practice of Hope:
Date: Saturday, November 15, 2008
Time: 9:00am to 12:00pm
Location: TBA, Portland
Presenters: Jeanne and Dick Roy
Description: Living in a society where “bad news” seems so prevalent, the notion of hope is ever present. Topics covered in this interactive workshop include the meaning of hope, its interface with optimism and pessimism, an overview of the practice of hope, the practice of hope as an intentional act, guiding principles for the practice, specific daily practices, and alignment. Refreshments will be available.
Change Agency Network Gathering | Change Agency Network Workshop
Agent Highlight:
Dimitra Giannakoulias, a graduate of the Center’s 10th Agent of Change class, has made steady progress in her initiative at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church where she works. Her co-workers and supervisors were receptive to her new ‘green’ ideas; all it took was focused effort to get the ball rolling.
Already Dimitra has transformed the waste system by encouraging staff to reduce, reuse, and recycle. She secured and placed recycling bins in convenient locations along with information informing people about what can and cannot be recycled. To address disposables in the kitchen and break room, she wrote ads in the parish newsletter, asking people to donate plates, cups, and utensils and has successfully reduced the amount of waste created by the church staff.
Dimitra hasn't limited her project to waste reduction. She convinced her supervisor to purchase 7th Generation cleaning products and 30-percent-recycled paper. With approval from the parish council, she scheduled an energy audit through the Energy Trust of Oregon. She has also contacted the city about appropriate recycling receptacles for the church's annual festival and is currently recruiting members of a green team.
Dimitra is a great example of someone making a positive change in her circle of influence.