LEANNE TINGAY RECEIVES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY’S FRIEND OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AWARD
Shelburne, VT (July 30, 2024) – The Community Development Society (CDS) and Community Heart & Soul, a nonprofit organization building stronger, healthier, and more economically vibrant small cities and towns across the United States, are proud to announce Leanne Tingay as the 2024 recipient of CDS’s Friend of Community Development Award. This prestigious honor recognizes an individual who has made a significant and impactful contribution to the field of community development.
A Distinguished Career in Community Development
With a career spanning over three decades, Ms. Tingay has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to enhancing the vitality and resilience of communities through her leadership and innovative approaches. In her current role as Senior Program Associate at Community Heart & Soul, Tingay has worked with over fifty communities across fifteen states, specializing in one-on-one coaching and guiding teams through all stages of community engagement and development. Her contributions at Community Heart & Soul have expanded the reach of community development principles to new audiences, equipping practitioners with the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate impactful community engagement and development processes.
As a Downtown Program Coordinator for the State of Vermont, Tingay played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown areas and fostering economic growth. Her strategic vision and ability to mobilize resources led to significant achievements, including securing funding for flood recovery after Tropical Storm Irene. Tingay’s impact extends beyond Vermont, with noteworthy contributions as Director/CEO at the Erie Downtown Improvement District, Executive Director at Warren Main Street, and Executive Director of the Lake Havasu Uptown Association.
“Leanne’s work exemplifies the spirit of community development and serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have in creating thriving, resilient communities,” said Community Heart & Soul President Mark Sherman.
Public Awareness and Engagement
Tingay’s dedication to community engagement has been a cornerstone of her career. By involving community members in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of initiatives, policies, and programs, she ensures that all resident voices are heard, and their needs are addressed. Tingay has also been instrumental in elevating the visibility and importance of community development and her ability to effectively communicate with wide audiences has helped highlight the tangible impact of community development initiatives.
Tingay is also passionate about promoting the arts, culture, and historic preservation as integral components of community development. Her tenure at Struthers Library Theatre provided an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative power of cultural assets in community revitalization.
Recognizing Significant Contributions
Leanne Tingay’s recognition by the Community Development Society underscores her significant role in advancing community development. Her commitment, collaborative approach, and public engagement efforts make her a deserving recipient of this esteemed award.
Community Development Society Conference Chair Stephen Jeanetta also expressed this sentiment: “The CDS Friend of Community Development Award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions that align with the Society’s principles of good practice. Leanne’s work stands as a testament to these principles and demonstrates how community development can serve as a catalyst for positive change. Her efforts have not only benefited the communities she directly engaged with but have also served as an inspiration and model for others in the field.”
About Community Heart & Soul
Community Heart & Soul, a nonprofit organization, builds stronger, healthier, and more economically vibrant small cities and towns across the United States. In addition to promoting the Community Heart & Soul model, the organization trains and supports a nationwide network of certified coaches who provide training and guidance to over 120 communities. The organization is currently offering $10,000 Seed Grants to qualifying small cities and towns to start the Community Heart & Soul process.
About the Community Development Society
The Community Development Society is a nonprofit corporation established in 1969 to strengthen and advance community development policy, practice, learning, and research through educational and scientific means. https://cdsociety.org/
