What is the name of this Summit?
“Upper Perkiomen Valley Community Services:
Committed to Caring, Stronger by Sharing,Forging Partnerships for a Brighter Tomorrow.”

How did this project begin?
The economic downturn that began in 2008 and its negative impact on funding sources has underscored the need for the Upper Perkiomen Valley not-for-profit* organizations to change the way they operate. This initiative began as a discussion among The Upper Perkiomen Valley Senior Center, The Open Line, Youth and Family Services, Upper Perkiomen Valley YMCA, the Upper Perkiomen School District, and The Upper Perkiomen Valley Library. This collective group is called the Upper Perkiomen Valley Community Services Coalition. The Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Southeastern PA, and Montgomery County worked closely with the named agencies to help them create a plan for action to address their needs for sustainability.

Who has participated in the process?
The first meeting was held on December 7, 2009. The focus was bringing together the board members and stakeholders concerned about the delivery of services within the Valley. The Chamber, United Way of Southeastern PA, and Montgomery County have worked together to provide support for continued dialog and action. On January 11, another meeting was held. In addition to board members of the organizations previously listed, representatives of the following entities also attended: local municipalities, the local business community, The Lincoln Center, Upper Perkiomen Valley School District, elected officials including Senator Bob Mensch, and the Upper Perkiomen Valley Ministerium.

Why do you need a consultant?
A project of this importance, scope and magnitude requires the skills of a trained and experienced facilitator not directly related to the project who will keep the project focused and moving forward.

How was the consultant chosen?
Given the complexity of this project, it was important to retain a highly skilled and experienced facilitator who has experience facilitating large groups.  Wellbeing Systems brings this experience to the table.

How is this process being funded?
Funding is being generously shared between the United Way of Southeastern PA as part of its Strategic Partnerships Initiative, Montgomery County, and the Montgomery County Foundation.  In addition, participating organizations are supporting the work with a small monetary contribution and in kind support.

Why is this important for our community?
All of us – community members, municipal representatives, recipients of services, as well as board and staff of the agencies, have a stake in how services are delivered in our community.  Because of the lack of public transportation, it’s also important that vital services remain in the Upper Perkiomen Valley and that the social fabric of the community be strengthened through this process.

How is this different from the PerkUp project?
Although many of the partners are the same and both require community involvement, the UPVCSC has a defined scope concentrating on community services. PerkUp is a broad-based, multi-phase economic development initiative driven by the Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce beginning with a community assessment (spanning ten municipalities in four counties) that formed the basis for an economic development plan.  Currently in the implementation phase, the PerkUp Plan includes an education initiative, nature tourism recommendations and a business development council which support the vision of a healthy, balanced economy in the UPV. The assessment, plan and executive summary are available on the UPV Chamber’s website in pdf format.

What is the goal of the summit?
The goal for the Summit is to produce a clear, exciting, shared vision for the future of not-for-profit organizations in the Upper Perkiomen Valley. In addition, action plans will be developed for organizing, managing, and delivering services in new ways so that our programs survive and thrive.

How can I financially support this initiative?
Donations are much appreciated and being accepted by the Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber office on behalf of the Upper Perkiomen Valley Community Services Coalition Summit.  Please give or send your donation made out to UPV Chamber, in the memo line write: UPVCSC Summit.  Thank you.

UPVCSC Communications Team

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