JCCI Forward's Issue Forums are instrumental in involving JCCI Forward participants in the issues facing Northeast Florida and connecting them with the existing leadership structure of the city and businesss communities.

The Issue Forums have a two-fold purpose. First, they provide participants with a vehicle for gaining an understanding of a community issue or problem as it currently exists. Over four months, Issue Forums committee members dissect the historical events, study the current variables that comprise the issue, and determine the differing community perceptions surrounding the issue.

The second component of JCCI Forward Issue Forums is the process of reaching consensus in key findings and drafting an action plan. The action plan is a summary of action steps that forum members commit to take to affect positive change on the issue at hand. Action plans may be as simple as spreading knowledge about the issue discussed or as complex as creating an advocacy group for that particular issue. Once completed, the action plan is submitted to the JCCI Forward Executive Committee and the JCCI Board of Directors.

Whether the action plan is simple or complex, we think you will find the Issue Forums engaging, and enjoy the opportunity to connect with other community-minded individuals and with local business and community leaders. You will leave the Issue Forums more knowledgeable than before, and often continue to work to affect positive change in the community.

To see the full report on 2005 forums, click on the link below:

Downtown ... Greentown? Growing Green Space in Downtown Jacksonville

The Underground Connection: An Exploration of Issues Surrounding Underground Utilities and Options for Jacksonville

Forward Thinking: How to Effect Community Change in Jacksonville