Last month, 120 city leaders and key community stakeholders gathered in Miami as part of the Strong Cities, Strong Communities (SC2) National Resource Network’s second annual peer convening. Teams of three – consisting of two high level city staff and one community partner – from 44 cities joined together to share best practices, address common challenges, and brainstorm solutions.

The convening is a key component of the Network’s approach to partnering with the some of the most economically challenged communities around the country. The Network launched in May of 2014 with the announcement of its website, the provision of technical assistance in a small group of beta cities, and a “311 for Cities” feature that allowed several dozen cities to connect with national experts on issues such as blight reduction, strategic planning, encouraging diversity in police forces, and a number of other topics.

In October 2014, the Network expanded access to the 311 for Cities feature and announced an online Request for Assistance that provides an opportunity for cities that meet certain criteria related to population size and economic condition to request technical assistance from the Network. Upon receiving the application, the Network conducts a thorough assessment process with the city and then, if the Network and city agree on a project scope and budget moving forward, the Network delivers on the project, covering 75% of the cost with federal funds. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

The convening in Miami was open to all 40 cities that had requested assistance from the Network by May 1, plus 17 other cities that are engaged with other SC2 programs: those with Community Solutions Teams and those taking part in the Economic Visioning Challenge. During the three days in Miami, attendees toured two redevelopment projects, participated in interactive working sessions, and took advantage of formal and informal networking opportunities. A full agenda, including the working session topics, can be found here.

The development of the convening was led by a Steering Committee composed of representatives from five communities and ICMA, which is one of five organizations leading the Network. Learn more about the Network’s technical assistance and other initiatives on the website, and determine your eligibility for assistance by reviewing these criteria or emailing info@nationalresourcenetwork.org.