Building the Civic ‘Net to Catalyze Growth in Northern Oakland County Through Use of Social Media
By: Brandon Chesnutt
ROCHESTER, Mich., June 12, 2009 — G. Scott Aikens, Vice President – Leasing at Birmingham, Mich-based commercial real estate development firm Robert B. Aikens & Associates, LLC., announced today the formation of “Building the Civic ‘Net”, a philanthropic initiative designed to encourage the growth of online information and resource hubs developed by civic, cultural and education institutions, as well as individuals in the Northern Oakland County area.
“We believe the local community should embrace new digital tools as a way to stay informed and share resources with one another,” said Aikens. “The Building the Civic ‘Net initiative will recognize community leaders, entrepreneurs and civic programs that are currently integrating social media into their businesses and organizations and help support their growth.”
In mid-April, Building the Civic ‘Net identified four local organizations using social media to enhance the quality of life in Northern Oakland County and presented each with a grant to help them further their community-building efforts. The organizations recognized were:
· The City of Rochester Hills Entrepreneurs Network
· The Meadow Brook Writing Project – Summer Camps for Kids
Building the Civic ‘Net plans to award grants to additional local organizations bi-annually and also regularly host events to connect members of the community.
“The initial response has been extremely gratifying,” added Aikens. “We have already secured the support of many local officials and organizations willing to help support the program’s growth and we look forward to building on this initial momentum in the months to come.”
Watch video from the Building the Civic ‘Net meet and greet event held on June 9, 2009 at The Village of Rochester Hills.
About Building the Civic ‘Net
“Building the Civic ‘Net” is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Village of Rochester Hills and various private and institutional organizations based in Oakland County. The goal of the program is to encourage community adoption of social media and recognize businesses, entrepreneurs, non-profits and institutional programs currently using social media as a means to improve the quality of life in Oakland County. For more information, visit the Building the ‘Civic Net blog at http://www.villagesquare-mi.com.
CONTACT:
Brandon Chesnutt
Identity Marketing & Public Relations
248.258.2333
[email protected]
Twitter – @bchesnutt