More than 45 Newport residents ranging in age from their mid-teens to mid-90s gathered Monday for a community conversation event to discuss pressing local issues.
The World Café discussion, co-hosted by RENEWport and Emmanuel Church, drew the largest crowd yet since the series began in April. Expert facilitator Gene Thompson-Grove guided participants through discussions on topics including affordable housing, education, healthcare, and youth programs.
“My first time participating in the World Cafe sponsored by RENEWport was insightful and uplifting,” said attendee Bonnie Watson. “We all came from different walks of life. But we shared a common concern, building community and addressing its challenges.”
The event featured a strong youth presence, with participants addressing questions such as “What issues or causes matter most to you right now?” and “What would success look like six months from now if you worked with others starting today?”
Fifteen-year-old Xavier said he “really enjoyed the event” and appreciated “meeting so many likeminded people who really care about our community.”
Attendee Jaylen O’Neil noted that “the people in the room listened to the visions of the youth in the room.”
City Manager Colin Kennedy, City Council members Ellen Pinnock and Xay Khamsyvoravong, and former City Council member Angela Lima participated in the discussions.
Issues raised during the nonpartisan dialogue included preserving the birthing center at Newport Hospital, immigration, creating safe youth gathering spaces and launching a community kindness campaign.
Sue Sipprelle, co-president of RENEWport along with Pinnock, said the pair were “delighted by the response to the three World Cafés that we have held and we look forward to putting some of the ideas raised at them into action.”
The next RENEWport meetings are scheduled for Sept. 18, Oct. 16 and Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at Emmanuel Church, 42 Dearborn St. All are welcome and parking is available.
