Portsmouth, Ohio — As communities across America grapple with disconnection and division, Leadership Ohio is taking action to address these critical issues. The organization continues its statewide tour with its second stop in Portsmouth, inviting residents to explore the question: How can we come together to rebuild our shared sense of community and purpose?
Leadership Ohio, in collaboration with Scioto Literary and Shawnee State University, proudly presents a screening and discussion of the powerful new documentary, "Join or Die." This event, titled "Join In: Uniting Communities in Ohio" and partially funded by the America 250-Ohio Commission, will take place at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. The event is free and open to the public, welcoming individuals, families, schools, workplaces, faith organizations, and community groups to participate in an evening of reflection and engagement.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, Portsmouth
Drawing from the groundbreaking research of Ohioan Robert Putnam, author of the influential book Bowling Alone, "Join or Die" underscores the crucial role that clubs and civic organizations play in fostering community bonds and reinforcing democratic values. The documentary examines the decline of these community institutions and its impact on our society.
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to view this exclusive screening, engage in thought-provoking discussions with a panel of distinguished guest speakers, and explore ways to actively participate in rebuilding the social fabric of our state and nation through joining or forming local clubs.
Guest speakers will include:
Dr. Eric Braun, President, Shawnee State University
Lisa Duty, Executive Director, Leadership Ohio
Lynsi Eason, Events Planner, Portsmouth Chapter of Rotary International
Andrew Feight, Ph.D., Director, Center for Public History, Shawnee State University
Debbie Gambill, Founding Member, Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery
Amanda Page, Founder & Executive Director, Scioto Literary
"Join In" serves as a timely reminder of the importance of civic engagement and the power of collective action. It is a call to revitalize the spirit of community and to recognize that our shared future depends on the connections we build with one another.
As Leadership Ohio continues its journey across the state, the Portsmouth event marks a significant step in fostering dialogue and inspiring action to strengthen our communities and our democracy.