Do Good Columbia is a model for creative community-problem solving that engages diverse stakeholders who are often left out of the decision-making process — business leaders, connected community members, artists, end-users. Using human-centered design, putting the user at the center of solutions, and including the voices of diverse stakeholders leads to the development of ideas that are truly collaborative and relevant to the community. River access is a timely issue that many residents care about.

Engage team of advisors — influential community members— to help guide planning

Plan workshop and train facilitators

Recruit diverse participants

Select participants and assign them to advisor/facilitator teams

Use human-centered design to craft outstanding experiences

Research and share background information on community problem with participants

Encourage advisors to take their team on a site visit prior to workshop

Host kick-off event

Host and lead two-day workshops

Facilitate judges selecting a concept for implementation

Partner effectively for implementation

One hundred four community members came together, learned to use human-centered design and ideated solutions for improving river access. Do Good Top Ten document developed for local groups working on river access. One team's idea received $50,000 and implementation support — rebranding, adding public art, seating, historic display and Spider Lily Happy Hours. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive: "Participating in the process was invigorating. I don't have power/money, but I still want to do good."