Stronger together.
Collaborating to solve pressing policy issues for our region.
ABOUT CONNECT
MISSION
CONNECT — The Congress of Neighboring Communities — brings together the City of Pittsburgh and surrounding municipalities to identify common public-policy challenges and collaboratively innovate and implement solutions.
VISION
In Allegheny County, 130 local governments exist to deliver services; CONNECT brings them together to do that better than they can alone.
WHY CONNECT?
Southwestern Pennsylvania is a very fragmented region; we have the country’s most local governments per capita. In order to collaborate across sectors and political boundaries, we…
- Build relationships with other municipal officials
- Get research support on issues you care about
- Work across boundaries to get funding
THE CONNECT PROCESS
Exploring
At the first stage of engagement, a new topic is introduced by a member and determined whether it is a higher or lower priority. This stage encompasses any issues that have not yet received funding.
Monitoring
At the second stage, we collaborate with student groups and researchers. We invest our time and resources into finding solutions.
Implementing
At the third stage, we will leverage our insights from exploring and monitoring to begin active projects. Once a priority is given funding and resources, we’re able to create policy and program innovation.
WE DO REMARKABLE THINGS WHEN WE CONNECT
By working collaboratively, CONNECT is able to make an impact on the issues that span municipal boundaries.
Being connected with ideas, concerns, experiences, and best practices allows each municipality to benefit from the strength of its neighbors.
OUR MEMBERS
MEET WITH US
Internship and Independent Study
How do you want to get CONNECTed? Work with us on a variety of priority issues and get experience building relationships, collaborating, and innovating.
CONNECT Presentation At Your Council
We will provide research-based insights and present on the benefits and opportunities for CONNECT members. This is a great presentation for council and commission meetings.