For many, a city serves as nothing more than a backdrop for the important things in life. On the surface, this makes perfect sense. Every day, the demands of our careers, education, family, and relationships require much of our attention. Combined with our society’s reliance on technology, it can feel as if the city we live in has a minimal impact on how we live our lives. Yet, if we choose to view our city in this manner, we ignore a great truth:

A city is more than a location; it is an experience.

Having lived in Orlando, Florida during the Great Recession and its aftermath, I witnessed first-hand how the forces of a city created an experience that impacted the lives of its residents. Working in a nonprofit organization combating poverty and homelessness, I heard countless stories of families living on the brink of poverty due to the foreclosure crisis, layoffs, and the lack of good jobs available. Now living in Chicago, Illinois, I continue to be fascinated at the ways forces such as politics, transportation, and the built environment impacts those who call the Windy City home.

Out of this fascination comes The Heart of a City. As a website, The Heart of a City will explore the ways a city’s experience shapes the lives of individuals in cities throughout the United States and around the world. This will include a focus on the ways individuals and organizations tackle issues and make advances in their cities in a variety of areas including:

– Politics & Government
– Education
– Public Health
– Community & Economic Development
– Arts & Entertainment

In addition, The Heart of a City will provide a platform for city dwellers to share their stories. Through spotlight segments and user-generated content, readers will learn how a person’s life is shaped by their city’s unique characteristics.

It is my hope that The Heart of a City encourages you to examine the ways your life is impacted by your city and become engaged in shaping your city’s experience now and in the years to come. Let’s experience our cities together!