Political Participation

The Greenwood Men's Group in Seattle does not actively participate in politics as a group at the present time simply because that is not a core function of the group.

However, individual members are active in local, national and world politics.

World Affairs Roundtable

Some men participate in a group called the World Affairs Roundtable.  This is a monthly group in which members teach each other about global events. Attendees choose subjects to research before meeting and then give five-minute presentations on their chosen subjects, followed by time for questions and discussion with the group. For more information:  moc.liamg@xatnocydutslabolg.

Environment & Climate Change

Several members are quite concerned about our environmental issues and climate change. We are considering a micro-group that would focus on discussing this vital topic.  Are you interested in this? Let us know and we'll keep working on developing a subgroup that includes your interests.

Local Politics

Are you concerned about a particular issue or problem in our local community, city, county or state? While very important, the group hasn't voiced a lot of interest in this topic.

However, we do believe that civic involvement is a critical function of good citizenship.  If you wish to become more politically active, here are a couple of possible sources for getting started:

The Seattle Department of Neighborhoods has a Ways to Participate site that you can check out. It explains how to give public comment, how to enroll in the People's Academy for Community Engagement, or join the Seattle Arts Leadership Team.  Of particular importance is membership in over 70 city boards and commissions. Members influence decisions affecting the city by providing advice and feedback on matters including human services, land use, bicycles, civil rights, and other issues. We think the city would certainly benefit from your advice and experience.

Greenwood Men's Group Politics

Yes, the men's group is influenced by the local political climate, whether it is funding, attitudes or what-have-you. 

It is incumbent upon every man in our group to be aware of the political climate within the Greenwood Senior Center, the Phinney Neighborhood Association, the Greenwood community, the city of Seattle, and King County. We live in a complex web of interacting agencies and interest groups.

To an extent, the Greenwood Men's Group is dependent on a positive relationship with various stakeholders in our community. As an example, there is a paid facilitator who supports the functions of our group, and who is funded by King County. 

At the same time, we are a valid part of our community and we do what we can to strengthen and improve it.

However, a problem we have is that we are mostly unknown in our community. Few are aware of the good work we do, especially in improving the social aspects of our community.

Therefore, it's really important that we keep other stakeholders informed of our activities and encourage them to support what we are striving to do. Call it "politics" or what you will. There is a need for each of us to speak up for our interests.

Phinney Neighborhood Center Board of Directors

The Phinney Neighborhood Center (PNA) in Seattle manages the Greenwood Senior Center, with which the men's group is affiliated. A good way for the group to become involved with the PNA is to apply for open positions on the PNA Board of Directors. 

Thus far, at least one of our members has applied. For reasons unknown to us, he was rejected. The fact is, many members of the men's group have extensive business and organizational skills and experience that would prove valuable to the PNA. It's puzzling that the PNA appeals for volunteers to fill Board of Directors slots yet none of us is on the Board.  We encourage you to apply in spite of rejections.

Greenwood Senior Center (GSC) Annual Survey

An excellent way for you to support the GSC is to complete their annual survey, which is usually available in late July. If you are a subscriber to their newsletter, you will be notified.  This  survey helps them to complete their funding requirements for the year.

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The Greenwood Men's Group's mission is to provide a supportive environment where men from diverse backgrounds can foster camaraderie, develop friendships, share wisdom, enrich one another's lives -- and contribute to the Seattle communities of Greenwood, Ballard, Crown Hill, Fremont, Green Lake, Greenwood, Licton Springs, Loyal Heights, Phinney Ridge, Ravenna, Sunset Hill, Wallingford, Wedgwood, Whittier Heights and beyond.