Help Foster Inclusivity in Summit County

Leadership Park City Class 31 Launches Community Connection Campaign

“In a world that often feels divisive and isolating, we want to create a welcoming and compassionate community where anyone who works, lives, or visits here feels valued and connected,” said Makaela Herran, Class 31 participant and team leader.

Belonging Benches, Class 31's civic project , will provide space in our community to encourage everyone to say hello, smile, and take time to connect with the people around them.

The project was inspired by similar campaigns around the world and is well-aligned with other local efforts, such as the Park City Chamber’s Mountainkind messaging, the Park City School District’s We All Belong campaign, and Park City Community Foundation’s Community Belonging Fund.

“We are lucky to be in an area that values kindness, belonging, and a sense of community,” said Susan Odell, who is co-leading the class project. “The Belonging Benches are meant to build on the existing work of other local organizations and remind us to connect with one another on a human level. We’re going to encourage our neighbors to get out and talk to each other, to strike up a conversation."

In addition to placing decorated benches throughout Summit County, the Class is partnering with Mountain Mediation Center and Kept Kind to offer a community training workshop that will focus on starting conversations and spreading kindness. This will be the kick-off event for the Kept Kind weekend beginning on July 25th.

Our vision is to help create a welcoming and compassionate community where anyone who works, lives, or visits here can feel valued and connected.

We estimate the project will cost $10,000 to create permanent spaces for community connection. Please consider donating even a small amount to help us create a welcoming, compassionate community where anyone who works, lives, or visits here can feel valued and connected.

Thank you!

About Leadership Park City

Leadership Park City is a project by Park City Municipal Corporation that aims to build local leaders through a year-long curriculum that equips participants with skills, confidence, and connections to drive community impact through immersive civic and leadership training.