Building a Movement, Block by Block
Policy ideas only become reality when people organize around them. Change Buffalo PAC’s organizing programs are designed to connect residents across the city and region, build local leadership, and give every neighborhood a voice in the turnaround.
To join any program below, visit our Get Involved page or contact us and tell us which one interests you.
Neighborhood Captains
The problem: Many residents care deeply about their block but are not connected to the decisions that shape it.
What we propose: A network of volunteer neighborhood captains who keep neighbors informed, gather local priorities, and bring them to the PAC and to public meetings.
Why it matters to the turnaround: A turnaround that reaches every neighborhood needs leaders in every neighborhood.
How to join: Tell us your neighborhood and we will connect you with others nearby.
Policy Working Groups
The problem: Good policy needs real-world expertise from people who know how things work on the ground.
What we propose: Our working groups in Global Economic Prowess, Urban Design and Housing, Environment and Recreation, Reimagined Tax Systems, Streamlined Governance and Public Education bring residents and professionals together to develop and refine the PAC’s proposals. Each meets quarterly, with virtual and in-person options.
Why it matters to the turnaround: The best ideas for Buffalo will come from the people who live and work here.
How to join: Choose a group on our Get Involved page.
Civic Leadership Program
The problem: Boards, commissions, neighborhood organizations and civic institutions need new leaders, but many capable residents do not know how to get involved.
What we propose: A civic leadership program that helps residents understand how local government works, from budgets and zoning to public authorities, and prepares them to serve on boards, commissions and neighborhood councils.
Why it matters to the turnaround: Filling the region’s leadership void starts with building a deeper bench of informed, engaged citizens.
How to join: Contact us to express interest.
Neighborhood Listening Project
The problem: Plans are too often made before residents are asked what they need.
What we propose: Volunteers talk with neighbors, at the door, at community gatherings and online, about what they want for their streets, parks, schools and local businesses. What we hear shapes the PAC’s priorities.
Why it matters to the turnaround: Participatory planning starts with listening.
How to join: Volunteer through our Get Involved page.
Professional Expertise Corps
The problem: Architects, planners, lawyers, finance professionals, engineers and data specialists have skills that civic campaigns rarely tap.
What we propose: A volunteer corps that lends professional skills to research, policy drafting, design concepts and data analysis for PAC initiatives.
Why it matters to the turnaround: Credible, detailed proposals are harder to dismiss and easier to adopt.
How to join: Tell us about your expertise.
Next Generation Buffalo
The problem: Retaining young talent is essential to the region’s future, but students and young professionals are often left out of civic life.
What we propose: A network for students and young professionals to engage with the Turnaround Agenda, connect with each other, and take on leadership roles in PAC campaigns.
Why it matters to the turnaround: A region that gives young people a stake in its future gives them a reason to stay.
How to join: Contact us and let us know you are interested.
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