Porches to Policy

Neighborhood Conversations That Shape Local Decisions

Are you a trusted voice in your neighborhood? Do your neighbors come to you for advice, conversation, or connection? Porches to Policy is looking for Ward 5 and Ward 7 residents to host small, neighborhood-based conversations that will directly shape DC’s Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) process. The Comprehensive Plan guides where and how we build new housing, grow job opportunities, connect neighborhoods, preserve our rich history, and invest in amenities.

What Is Porches to Policy?

Porches to Policy is a resident-led engagement initiative that brings neighborhood planning conversations to where people already gather—homes, churches, and community spaces—rather than relying on traditional public meetings. Through small “micro-forums” of 15–25 neighbors, the program creates a comfortable, familiar environment for discussion, storytelling, and feedback.

This initiative is designed to reach residents who are less likely to attend formal public hearings, particularly residents from low-income households, renters, seniors, and others facing barriers to participation.

You don’t need to be a planning expert. You just need to be a trusted neighbor willing to open your door.

Why It Matters

Too often, the people most affected by planning decisions are the least represented in traditional engagement processes.

Porches to Policy changes that by:

  • Meeting residents where they are

  • Creating comfortable, familiar spaces for honest conversation

  • Elevating voices that are often left out of formal processes

  • Connecting lived experience directly to policy decisions

This work reflects The Coalition’s commitment to equitable community development, inclusive engagement, and economic mobility for all DC residents.

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What Does it Mean to Host?

All Hosts Receive a Micro-Grant of Up to $300

To cover food and refreshments (including culturally relevant options), paper goods and supplies, accessibility supports, light childcare support, outreach and printing materials, and other items that improve participation comfort and turnout.

In addition, selected hosts will receive:

  • Full facilitation support from The Coalition staff during your session
  • A curated session agenda and discussion prompts tailored to your neighborhood
  • Outreach planning assistance to help you invite your neighbors
  • Surveys and materials provided — no preparation required on your part
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What a Session Looks Like

Each session is a relaxed, neighborhood gathering—not a formal meeting. Think of it as an extended conversation over a meal. Here’s what to expect:

Group Size

15–20 neighbors per session

Location

Your home, church, community center, condo common area, or other trusted neighborhood space

Format

Facilitated discussion with storytelling prompts and optional shared meal; light music and flowing conversations

Onsite Support

The Coalition staff facilitates; DC Office of Planning representative shares updates (as available)

Data Collection

Short surveys and in-person interviews (with clear consent practices)

Your Role

Open your space, invite your neighbors, and help create a welcoming environment

Get Involved

Who Should Apply

We are seeking hosts from across Wards 5 and 7 who can convene neighbors that may not typically participate in traditional planning processes. Ideal hosts include:

  • Community Voices Academy alumni
  • Resident Engagement Network members
  • Faith leaders and congregation members
  • Block captains, tenant leaders, and condo association representatives
  • Longtime residents with strong neighborhood ties
  • Anyone who can bring together 15–25 neighbors for a meaningful conversation

How to Apply

Submit a short interest form between March 31 and April 15, 2026. The form will ask for:

  • Your location type (home, church, community space, etc.)
  • Expected capacity (15–20 guests)
  • Preferred dates and times for your session
  • Any accessibility considerations for your space
  • A brief description of who you can convene
Submit an Interest Form

Selection Process

The Coalition will select hosts based on:

  • Alignment with Ward 5 and Ward 7 priorities and geographic coverage
  • Ability to reach residents not already engaged in the planning process
  • Trust and standing in the community
  • Alignment of physical space with the design of the initiative

Selected hosts will be notified and paired with a Coalition team member to co-plan their session, including outreach strategy, run-of-show, and logistics.

Become a Member

Become a member of The Coalition today, and join the fight for a District where all residents can live in thriving communities that are racially, economically and socially just!

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