This panel discussion will focus attention on how a community identified a significant asset and is now working to ensure its rehabilitation and restoration.

Using the Sears Sunken Garden in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood as the organizing feature for the discussion, panelists will explain the significance of the landscaped garden and historic pergola and how some North Lawndale Community Council GROWSS Committee members organized, collaborated with neighbors and community members, identified strategic partners, and engaged a world-renowned designer to launch a $6 million-dollar historic landscape garden and preservation project.

They will discuss their accomplishments and challenges along the way, as well as the impact of the project on their community and partner organizations. This will be an inspiring discussion showing how asset-based community development really works.