Using P.A.T.H. to Create a Visual Plan for Hastings Youth Commons
In the heart of central Hastings, a group of passionate individuals known as Hastings Youth Commons is embarking on a groundbreaking journey to transform a derelict area of Hastings into a vibrant center for young people. Their vision is radical and ambitious, aiming to provide a safe and inclusive space for the community's youth. To bring this vision to life, Hastings Youth Commons have invited me to deliver a series of PATH workshop (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope), a dynamic and empowering tool for strategic planning and visualising the future.
In this blog, I’ll explore how Hastings Youth Commons is using the PATH process to craft a visual plan that not only supports their mission but also engages the community in the exciting journey ahead.
Esther Springett leading a PATH workshop with the Hastings Commons youth work team
The Power of P.A.T.H.
PATH is a person-centered planning tool that focuses on collaboration, empowerment, and the visual representation of a desired future. It encourages open dialogue, active participation, and a shared vision among all stakeholders. Here's how Hastings Youth Commons is using PATH to their advantage:
1. Inclusivity and Community Engagement
Hastings Youth Commons recognises that their project isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and well-being whilst increasing opportunities for young people. To ensure that their plans are representative of the community's needs and aspirations, they’re inviting young people to engage in the PATH process.
Through facilitated sessions, PATH encourages open conversations and the sharing of ideas, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. The result is a collective vision that reflects the hopes and dreams of the entire community.
2. Visualising the Future
A central component of the PATH process is creating a visual representation of the desired future. This plan not only serves as a source of inspiration but also as a roadmap for the project's development.
The visual plan showcases potential, with vibrant images of creative, social and holistic space and support to meet the specific wishes and needs of young people.
3. Empowering and Motivating
PATH is not just about planning; it's about fostering hope and motivation. Hastings Youth Commons understands the power of this process to inspire action and instill a sense of purpose in its team and the community at large.
By participating in the PATH process, individuals feel a personal connection to the project and a sense of ownership over the future center. This emotional investment propels them to work together, overcome challenges, and bring the vision to life.
4. Flexible Adaptability
The PATH process allows for adaptability and flexibility in planning. As the project evolves, Hastings Youth Commons can easily make adjustments to their visual plan to accommodate new ideas, changing circumstances, or emerging community needs. This adaptability is essential in ensuring the project remains responsive to the ever-evolving needs of the young people it aims to serve.
Next Steps
Hastings Youth Commons is embarking on a remarkable journey to transform a derelict part of central Hastings into a vibrant center for the young people of their town. Their visual plan, directly inspired by the dreams of the community, will serve as a guiding light in their mission to create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space for young people.
I’d love to discuss how P.A.T.H. can work for your project. Get in touch to schedule a call.
