Testimonials

Regional Surge Shows Four Faces
Neal R. Peirce, syndicated columnist

ARS helps leaders be effective stewards of their regions…

“[ARS] acquainted me with expert resource people who can help me strengthen my effectiveness. [It] helped me identify useful best practices.”
“It has been most helpful to put our efforts in context with other regional initiatives around the country. Learning what is similar, how this fits in a process, that we can look to the experience of others to get help.”
“The opportunity to benchmark efforts and learn from the experience of others has been significant.”

Peer relationships foster learning and collaboration…

“I've gained a better understanding of ways in which other regions have solved problems and created opportunities.”
“[I’ve] made connections with the ideas - and more importantly - with the leaders that are changing the face of their regions today.”
“I've exchanged several e-mails w/participants and incorporated their insights in my work.”

Alliance members stay on the cutting edge of innovative practices…

“The network constantly adds information about developments around the country, which I find useful wherever I am. I am most often speaking or working in other regions, other than the one in which I live. So ARS information web has been one of my most valuable sources, because the information comes distilled through the eyes and experience of people whose judgment I trust.”
“We have adapted ideas or refined ideas that other regions use. In many cases, we have already implemented ideas presented in meetings and the newsletter.”

A national network generates momentum and support for regional issues…

“In his speeches and other advocacy efforts, Mayor Johnson often points to ARS and its active members as evidence of the growing national awareness of the importance of regionalism.”
“[An outcome of ARS is] building a national, cross-sector leadership forum for regional advocacy.”
“I have used the ‘fact’ of the National Network, the strong regional developments in other important cities and the quality of individuals involved as support/validation of our work in San Diego.”

ARS brings a unique value to other organizationsit networks the networks…

“[ARS has resulted in] transfer of ideas and building of network relationships.”California Center for Regional Leadership
“[The] Alliance was a charter partner with PRL, helping to organize, develop the strategic plan, network, and connect with key people. I feel we have a collaborative relationship, which is the ultimate best practice.”Partnership for Regional Livability
“[I’ve gained a] better understanding of positive opportunities to connect private sector actors in regional equity conversation. [I’ve] shared the work of ARS with other community-based actors who are developing and/or acting on a regional equity agenda.”Policylink

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