We believe that communities are healthiest when they possess the authority, capacity, and responsibility to chart their own course. We call this vision local self-reliance.
The Institute's vision the fosters in work and deed is:
- Our Community Broadband Networks program fosters the creation of high-quality, locally accountable broadband networks;
- Our Community-Scaled Economy program counters monopolies and champions independent business and local banking ;
- Our Energy Democracy program works to expand clean, dispersed energy generation and increase local ownership;
- And our Waste to Wealth and Composting for Community programs develop neighborhood-led recycling, reuse, and composting enterprises.
How do they work? The organization states:
 · In depth analysis by combining journalism and data analysis to produce influential reports, high-profile articles in national outlets, and compelling presentations;
 · Policy Solutions, the organization has in-depth analysis where they promote policies at the local, state and federal levels alongside working with citizens, activists, and policy makers
 · Building coalitions, entrepreneurs, city planning and several other organizations by which they foster self-reliance
 · And, partnering with others.
The institute was founded in 1974. They have offices at Minneapolis, Minnesota; Portland, Maine; and Washington D.C.
Could we become winners if we fostered these types of challenges and changes? Or, do we continue going the way we are going now?
What are the ramifications of either?
What are you open to do, Reader? You are what the world is looking for. Not an externalized Savior. We need to embrace Sanity! Meanwhile, consider the short movie I found. It's referred to as the "Twilight Zone." Can you see that Twilight Zone in our politics, businesses, and our homes and families?
The short movie is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzlG28B-R8Y(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).