SUSTAINABLE AND
THRIVABLE COMMUNITIES
By Debi Acker-Zolnoski,
Community Development Professional
Welcome to the introductory article in my series “Sustainable Community
Development.” Each month a new sub-topic, such as green-living, green-building,
innovative energy technologies, and transportation alternatives, along with
many others, will be explored. My research expands to interesting communities
within our worldwide environment, also including how climate, weather, food and
natural resources encompasses economic activity.
Many people dream of residing and/or working in a wondrously thriving
community; a community rich in amenities, providing a healthy lifestyle with
commonality in interests and attributes for its residents.
Living in the Santa Clarita Valley for seven years was a genuinely unique life-
changing experience. The SCV felt like being inside an enchanting “circle,”
surrounded by lush and changing scenic views. The community is blessed with a
plethora of activities, recreation, culture, shopping, and a very diverse and happy
“circle” of friends and families, with residents stepping up to help others. Pleasant
vibrant communities retain happy residents.
Historically, communities are planned with an idea or several ideas, typically by
founding “Fathers” or “Mothers,” and those whom are educated in community
development and/or urban land-use planning.
In a perfect scenario, a thriving sustainable community basically means “no
judgment” or disparity within its residents. Over time, a well-planned
municipality attracts many people – from near and far alike. In my opinion as well
as many professionals, communities should be inclusive and diverse. An inclusive
and diverse community should have a population with a measured variety of
ethnic and socio-economic (SES) status. By promoting opportunities for its
residents, cultural and historical awareness brings harmony within.
14