New Beginnings
The good news first. We are building many strong relationships with important conversation partners that will give this initiative teeth. What is core to the outcome of the 10 City Bridge Run is a robust conversation. It is the conversation that mobilises the network.
I have realised the start date will need to be pushed back to enable the conversation to develop to its potential to achieve the best outcome. Earlier I had planned several different start dates, going all the way back to 2010. The last iteration was for 12 December 2012. However, I have come to realise that to commence now would be premature, given the scale of what is sought to be achieved.
Consequently, I have made the decision to delay the commencement of the 10 City Bridge Run until 24 February 2013.
This was a difficult decision to make, and harder still to communicate to people like yourself. Let me first say thank you for taking time to read this post.
Every time the start date slips, I feel that the credibility of this initiative is tarnished in some way. In fact, the opposite is true in this case. Starting now would be irresponsible if making impact was key. Running over Christmas might have been good to ‘just do it’, but the reality is that everyone is face-down in Christmas pudding. Better to hold off until a better conversation is possible.
If you have Supported this initiative already, you will have seen the design behind this initiative in the Supporters Passport I sent you. The Supporters Passport, just like this blog, is of itself part of this unfolding conversation. Clearly, the dates in that passport will accordingly need to be amended.
I do seek your further help through any feedback you might want to offer on what is contained inside the outline in the Supporters Passport: what was good for you? what needed more explanation? what could be improved? and were there ideas that were not included?
I also welcome you taking a more active role in this initiative either by joining our team of volunteers, or by being available to offer feedback to the meaty part of the conversation as it begins to unfold: what should the Design Forum focus on? who should we be speaking with? what issues need to be addressed? We could do with your help no matter your experience, where you live, or how limited your time might be.
Here are two dates to note:
- 12 December 2012: the first of a number of planning meet-ups.
- 31 January 2013: Launch event. Looking for good suggestions about where, how and with whom this might be best organised.
If you did not receive your Supporters Passport, please email me with your correct address and I will ensure a new one is posted out immediately. If you are already a Supporter, there is no cost to you, and it is something I want you to have as a way of thanking you for your support.
People can still join and support this initiative through downloading a Supporters Form here Supporters Payment Form 10 City Bridge Run 291112.
This is a big undertaking, and it is taking shape. I hope you share my anticipation of what is possible from the journey ahead.
Building Bridges 