Järva stadsdelsförvaltning recently announced their plans to open a Community center in Rinkeby, but after receiving criticism from the local civil society, they have decided to reevaluate their approach. The initial proposal raised concerns from Rinkeby Folkets hus, a community center already established in the area, as the new center seemed to overlap with their existing activities and goals.
The proposed Community center was intended to focus on areas such as public health, parenting, and employment, aiming to provide a space filled with various activities for the community. However, this raised worries about potential competition with Rinkeby Folkets hus and a possible decrease in support for their own initiatives.
In response to the backlash, Rinkeby Folkets hus organized a meeting to discuss the new center’s implications. Stadsdelsdirektör Victoria Callenmark attended the meeting and acknowledged the concerns raised by the community. She explained that the initial idea behind the Community center was to address the needs of women who are distant from the labor market, education, and internships, a group that policymakers have identified as crucial to support.
As a result, the stadsdelsförvaltning is now reevaluating their plans and stepping back from the name „Community center.“ Callenmark emphasized that the intention was never to overshadow or undermine the work of civil society organizations like Rinkeby Folkets hus. Instead, they are focusing on recruiting a dedicated individual to coordinate efforts and resources to support women in the community effectively.
While the specifics of the new initiative are still being finalized, Callenmark assured that it would not come at the expense of existing programs. She highlighted the importance of collaboration with civil society and expressed a desire to deepen their partnership with Rinkeby Folkets hus.
The announcement of the stadsdelsförvaltning’s reconsideration was met with relief at Rinkeby Folkets hus. Carl Hamilton, the organization’s chairman, expressed gratitude for the decision to step back from the Community center concept. He emphasized the importance of a collaborative relationship with the stadsdelsförvaltning moving forward, hoping for increased understanding and support for their women’s projects.
Rinkeby Folkets hus is a non-partisan, citizen-driven nonprofit organization that operates independently within the larger framework of Folkets Hus and Parker, a national association of community centers. With over 500 weekly visitors, Rinkeby Folkets hus plays a vital role in the local community, sharing its building with Rinkeby library, Familjehuset, and Öppna förskolan. The organization consists of over thirty member associations, which collectively govern its activities.
In conclusion, the dialogue between Järva stadsdelsförvaltning and Rinkeby Folkets hus highlights the importance of collaboration and communication in community development initiatives. By listening to the concerns of local stakeholders and adjusting their plans accordingly, both parties can work towards a shared goal of supporting the community effectively.