Community momentum picks up in Harwood

Since purchasing a home in Harwood almost two years ago, Amanda Ruthven has made a significant effort to strengthen her block and community. “I want to be proud of my neighborhood [and] live in a safer, greener Harwood,” she says. “And since I bought a home here, I want that investment to pay off.”

Amanda recently participated in a GHCC-led block captain training, where she met neighbors from all over Harwood. “We had a great turnout and most of the people were new to me. I can’t think of a way that I would have met them otherwise.”

Also a member of the Harwood Community Association, Amanda is impressed by the number of residents who, like her, are getting more involved. Attendance is up to about 25 at community meetings, which, in Amanda’s opinion, is a sure indicator of change. “I really feel that we have turned a corner and have picked up momentum for building a stronger community association.”

This is the kind of story that we like to hear because we know how important it is to provide encouragement and support to residents like Amanda who want to make a difference. “[GHCC] has been instrumental in identifying grants, guiding the grant application, and then servicing the grants. They have also been essential for networking and putting community organizers in contact with one another. Thanks for being wonderful!”

On February 18 (President’s Day), Amanda joined her neighbors in helping clean the Barclay Rec Center in preparation for its grand re-opening in May. When WBAL showed up to cover the cleanup, they interviewed Amanda. “I have the day off, so I might as well spend the day inside a school scrubbing,” she said.

Amanda, thank YOU for being wonderful!