The Collaboratory, a hub for innovative ideas created by Peter Benkendorf, serves as a beacon of creativity and change on First Street.
With a mission to facilitate transformative societal changes, the Collaboratory harbors an environment of energetic dialogues and unique idea sharing. It promotes a culture of solidarity and sustainability, aiming to reshape the business norms that underscore community involvement and environmental conservation.
Key contributors like Bill Evans, the executive director of the House of Bread, stimulate insightful discussions on poverty and potential solutions, enhancing the collective knowledge and cultural ecosystem of the Collaboratory. Sarah Miller, program manager of the Harmony Project, brings strategic planning expertise to refine the institution’s programs. These leaders, among others, are instrumental in shaping the community’s ability to address various social issues.
The Collaboratory, originating almost two decades prior, welcomes a broad range of individuals to contribute towards societal reform. Such initiatives can be linked to Benkendorf’s previous work, including resident-run newspaper Voices of Cabrini in Chicago and the Community Learning Partnership, a national association working towards progressive policies.
Building on his rich background in mechanical engineering, advertising, and marketing, Benkendorf has been an influential figure in establishing brand identities and fostering meaningful affiliations.
Fostering community change through Collaboratory initiatives
His multidisciplinary proficiency has culminated in approximately 50 sustainable initiatives under The Collaboratory’s umbrella.
Among the initiatives are Ethnosh, an ethnic food adventure, Dayton Porchfest, the city’s largest free music festival, and drum circles at bus stations. A recently conceptualized urban agriculture project, known as the Urban Greens Initiative, targets food deserts, offering fresh produce to urban communities that might typically lack access to nutritious food. Moreover, the PNC Arts Annex initiative provides a shared space for creatives to collaborate and exhibit their work.
Driven by the goal of widespread societal progression, The Collaboratory plans to export its initiatives, like the urban agriculture project, outside of Dayton, with each project meeting specific societal needs and promoting long-term sustainability. This ambitious endeavor aims to fundamentally enhance the quality of life for everyone while serving as a model for other cities to emulate.
