On Thursday evening (Feb. 19), MU Extension Community Development Specialist David Burton led a neighborhood lab for the Heart of the Westside Neighborhood Association in Springfield, Mo. "I had the privilege of leading a Neighborhood Lab and it was one of those gatherings that quietly reminds you why neighboring matters," said Burton. The event was hosted by Flourish , a nonprofit that has intentionally embedded itself in the Heart of the Westside neighborhood. Their mission is beautifully simple and deeply ambitious: build relationships and transforming lives so the neighborhood can truly thrive — or flourish.  About 20 neighbors gathered around tables, shared a meal provided by Flourish, and then leaned into a 90-minute workshop rooted in asset-based community development. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong here?” we asked, “What’s strong here?” Participants took time to identify their own gifts and talents — the skills, passions, and experiences they already carry — and t...