Resident Engagement Network

The Resident Engagement Network is a hands-on, rewards-based resident engagement and advocacy training initiative connecting DC residents with advocacy, policy, and community engagement experts.

Through the Network, the Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development (CNHED) provides direct opportunities for residents to develop effective self-advocacy skills and tools critical to the success of justice movements. The Network was born out of a demonstrable desire for more advocacy training for DC residents based on increased interest in our other resident engagement programs.

The Resident Engagement Network will offer residents opportunities to earn money for attending events. Some events will be related to expanding advocacy capacity, such as testimony workshops, rally planning, and advocacy event planning; whereas others will focus on individual development, such as career coaching, headshots, resume clinics, and mock interview preparation. Our hope is for the Resident Engagement Network to serve as a place for residents to foster a strong sense of community, develop effective and meaningful advocacy skills, and become more civically engaged.

Focus Areas & Curriculum
  • Problem and policy analysis
  • Grassroots organizing and community engagement
  • Complex stakeholder engagement and understanding ways to track impact
  • Effective communication tools and strategies
  • Enhancing participation in democratic local government
  • Event planning and management skills
Scope and Expectations

Up to 100 residents will be accepted into the Resident Engagement Network’s inaugural 2024 year, followed by an additional 50 residents by the end of 2025.

Once a resident is accepted into the Network, they will remain in the Network. However, some events and engagement opportunities may be restricted to new members only.

How to maximize your participation in the Resident Engagement Network:

Acceptance

Applications are open to the public every August. The number of individuals accepted into the Network each year depends on space availability, funding, and other considerations. Applying does not guarantee acceptance into the network.

Onboarding

After official acceptance into the program, members will receive a link to submit required documents before engaging in the Network. This includes a general information form, emergency contact information, a W-9, a photo release, and other policy agreements.

Member Portal

Once all documentation is submitted, members will gain access to the online portal that houses all opportunities and announcements. Members are responsible for creating, remembering, and managing their own logins.

Attend Events

Once you have gained access to the portal members will immediately see opportunities for which they can register with varying amounts of point values assigned to each. The portal will also show you how many open registration slots remain for each event.

Earn Points

Members’ attendance at various events will earn them points. Each point is worth one dollar! Members will continue accumulating points throughout their entire time in the Network for each event they attend.

Get Paid!

Twice a year, Network members can redeem their points for cash. Once in the winter and once in the summer. Once points are redeemed, members can continue to attend events and earn additional points. Points are non-transferable and expire after 18 months of non-redemption.

All payments may be considered taxable income depending on the individual situation of each member. CNHED encourages members to consult with a tax specialist or financial advisor to better understand any implications of receiving payment from CNHED. CNHED is not able to provide financial counseling.

Become a member of CNHED today

and join the fight for a District where all residents can live in thriving communities that are economically just!

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