For five years, Arizona State University faculty and students have collaborated with residents of the west Phoenix community of Maryvale to foster wide-ranging changes on a variety of community concerns — from financial literacy to public safety to education. Join me as we explore the remarkable impact of ASU's Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative and how it is making a difference in the lives of its residents.

Understanding the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative

Explore the origins and purpose of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative.

The Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative is a collaborative effort between Arizona State University and the residents of Maryvale, a community in west Phoenix. It was established with the goal of addressing various community concerns and fostering positive change.

Initially named after the area of Maryvale that it covered, the initiative has expanded to include a larger portion of the community. This article delves into the origins and purpose of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative and highlights its transformative impact.

Co-Creating Community Goals

Learn about the process of co-creating community goals with Maryvale residents.

One of the key aspects of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative is the involvement of the community in setting goals and priorities. In the first year of the initiative, over 60 community stakeholders were interviewed to gather data and insights.

Through this collaborative process, a list of community goals was co-created with the residents and leaders of Maryvale. This inclusive approach ensures that the initiative addresses the specific needs and aspirations of the community.

Moving at the Speed of Trust

Discover how the One Square Mile initiative team builds trust and drives change.

The success of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative can be attributed to the team's commitment to building trust within the community. The team understands the importance of authentic relationships and has taken the time to learn about the Maryvale community.

By moving at the "speed of trust," the initiative team has been able to implement projects and initiatives that have a meaningful impact. This section explores the strategies employed by the team to build trust and drive positive change in Maryvale.

Addressing Community Issues

Uncover the critical community issues that the initiative aims to address.

The Maryvale community faces a multitude of social, economic, and human consequences that pose significant obstacles to its residents. One of the primary issues is poverty, which restricts access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

In addition to poverty, Maryvale residents also face challenges such as a high crime rate, low educational attainment, and housing insecurity. This section highlights the critical need for sustainable, long-term solutions to address these issues and improve the quality of life for Maryvale residents.

Impact and Future Initiatives

Explore the impact of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative and its future initiatives.

The Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative has already made a significant impact on the community, but its work is far from over. The initiative continues to focus on working with youth and building programs that promote financial literacy.

Through partnerships with local institutions, the initiative has facilitated bilingual financial literacy programs and youth sports development programs. These initiatives can be replicated in other communities, further expanding the positive impact of the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative.

Conclusion

The Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative, led by Arizona State University, has proven to be a powerful force for positive change in the Maryvale community. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to addressing community concerns, the initiative has made significant strides in areas such as financial literacy, public safety, and education.

By co-creating community goals, building trust, and addressing critical issues, the initiative has fostered a sense of empowerment and resilience among Maryvale residents. The impact of the initiative extends beyond its initial scope, with the potential for replication and expansion to benefit other communities.

As the Maryvale One Square Mile Initiative continues its work, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration. By working together, we can create lasting change and improve the lives of individuals and communities.