First Stop in Dayton Highlights the Power of Local Clubs in Strengthening Democracy
Columbus, Ohio — Across the country, people are asking critical questions: What happened to America? Have we lost touch with our neighbors and our shared destiny? If so, what is the cause? And, most urgently: What can we do to come together?
Leadership Ohio, in partnership with The Collaboratory and Dayton Metro Library, invites the community to explore these pressing questions by viewing and discussing the powerful new documentary, “Join or Die.” This event, “Join In: Uniting Communities in Ohio”, funded in part by the America 250-Ohio Commission, will be held in the Suzy Bassani Theater at the Main Library in Dayton. The event is free and open to the public, and Leadership Ohio invites individuals, families, schools, workplaces, faith organizations, and communities to come together for an afternoon of reflection.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024
Time: 2-5 PM
Location: Suzy Bassani Theater, Dayton Metro Library Main Branch
Based on the groundbreaking research of Ohioan Robert Putnam, author of the influential book Bowling Alone, "Join or Die" emphasizes the vital role that clubs and civic organizations play in creating a sense of community and strengthening democracy. The documentary sheds light on the decline of these community institutions and the impact of it on our society.
Attendees will have the opportunity to take part in this exclusive screening, engage in thought-provoking discussion with a panel of guest speakers, and explore how they can actively participate in rebuilding the social fabric of our state and nation by joining or forming local clubs.
Guest speakers will include:
Peter Benkendorf, Founder, The Collaboratory
Debi Chess, Director, External Relations & Development, Dayton Metro Library
Lisa Duty, Executive Director, Leadership Ohio
Brandon McClain, Magistrate and Acting Judge, Dayton Municipal Court
Mary McDonald, Former Mayor of Trotwood & Candidate for Montgomery County Commissioner, and,
Frank Scott, Trustee, The Rotary Club of Dayton; VP & Treasurer, Rotary Club Foundation.
“Join In” offers a timely reminder of the importance of civic engagement and the power of collective action. It is a call to rekindle the spirit of community and to recognize that our shared future depends on the bonds we forge with one another.
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For more information about the event or to RSVP, please visit leadershipohio.org or contact:
Lisa Duty
Executive Director
614.806.0607
lisaduty@leadershipohio.org