Lack of familiarity with Community Boards shows up in several ways. Most basically, the public does not know that Community Boards exist or what they do. Locals don’t understand how Boards operate or the process for community engagement, and are unfamiliar with planning jargon. In addition, many New Yorkers are not aware of the tasks the Boards are legally mandated to do  – participate in the City’s budget process, render opinion on all applications for land use changes in the district, and monitor delivery of services.

We asked, what are the biggest challenges the Community Board faces in regards to public participation and outreach. Here are some answers:

“Most people don’t know what a Community Board is or what it does” (Bronx Community Board 7 District Manager, Brooklyn Community Board 7 District Manager, Brooklyn Community Board 16 District Manager)

“People don’t know about the Community Board and its structure” (Queens Community Board 1 District Manager)

“Residents and workers don’t know what the Community Board does or that it exists” (Manhattan Community Board 1 Community Liaison)

The tools below can help improve public awareness of Community Boards.

• CB GlossaryA common document of Board related terms, to help explain the Board's processes and planning jargon to the public.
• CB WebsiteA website with all CB-related info (e.g. calendar, projects, contact details). Most Boards have a website.
• CB WikiA website explaining what Community Boards are, what they do, how they do it, and basic planning terms.
• Community EventA planned local social gathering, where Community Boards have the opportunity to promote their activity and enhance public awareness.
• Easier WebsitesWebsites for Community Boards to interact with the public, explain projects and initiatives, take feedback and receive questions and comments.
• FlyerA printed informational document for distribution in the community. Boards usually use flyers for distributing announcements and promoting their activity.
• Info KiosksA digital display for ongoing announcements, calendar items and general information. Can help Boards share information in new locations.
• Introductory WorkshopsCommunity Boards collaborate with advocacy and education organizations, in order to offer introductory workshops about planning in NYC.
• Local MediaUsing local media to get the word out.
• Online NewsletterSending out a summary of notifications and announcements to the Community Board's mailing list.
• Social MediaSeveral Community Boards use social media tools like Facebook and Twitter for sharing information and announcements.
• Visual ExplanationsVisual manuals explaining what Community Boards are, what they do, how they do it, and basic planning terms.