Proud to be Elected to the NUSA Board of Directors; Here is My Platform

 

Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to building and strengthening neighborhood organizations across the United States. Established in 1975, NUSA provides opportunities for diverse people and organizations to share their ideas, values, and experiences to build stronger communities. 

NUSA achieves its mission through various initiatives, including hosting an annual conference that facilitates networking and information-sharing among neighborhood organizations, government entities, and the private sector. These conferences serve as platforms for discussing pressing community issues, sharing best practices, and recognizing outstanding neighborhood initiatives through awards such as the "Neighborhood of the Year." 

The organization is governed by a 21-member Board of Directors, elected annually, who oversee its ongoing business, the annual conference and the direction of NUSA. 

MY PLATFORM

At the 2025 conference in Jacksonville, Florida, I (David Burton) was elected to the board for the first time. I thought I should be transparent about my vision for NUSA. My reasons for serving are grounded in innovation, inclusion, and impact. My priorities include:

  • Innovate to Attract and Engage
    Introduce fresh approaches to NUSA’s annual conference and programs that appeal to a broader and younger audience—ensuring NUSA remains relevant and welcoming to the next generation of neighborhood leaders.

  • Expand Year-Round Value for Members
    Develop educational and professional development offerings beyond the conference—such as online programs (like the partnership with Neighboring 101), peer learning groups, and regional networking—to deliver continuous value and engagement throughout the year.

  • Elevate the National Awards Program
    Increase awareness and participation in NUSA’s award programs by providing clear guidance and support for applicants (via online training). Spotlight and celebrate the most inspiring neighborhood success stories across the country after the conference as part of our educational effort.

  • Make the Conference More Accessible and Scalable
    Explore ways to streamline the annual conference, incorporate invite-based approaches to make the event exclusive to the first 500 to register, and implement additional fees for exclusive opportunities (like tours). This model could reduce hosting barriers and make it feasible for a wider range of cities—especially mid-sized communities—to host the event.

  • Strengthen Our Future by Starting an Endowment
    The best time to have started an endowment was 20 years ago. The second best time is today. NUSA is a 501c3 already and we need to encourage our membership and partners to donate gifts of cash or estates to a NUSA endowment fund to secure the organizations future.

  • Renew our Focus on the Mission of the Organization
    For over 50 years, NUSA has had a clear mission to "build and strengthen neighborhood organizations across the United States" and I want to be sure we let that mission guide our decisions.
I would encourage you check out NUSA and make plans to attend the next conference.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or visit his website at http://engagedneighbor.com.

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