4 minute read
ENGAGE, INSPIRE, LEAD: STRENGTHENING OUR
COMMUNITY BONDS!
Dear Members of the Dobson Ranch Community,
Today, I write to you as a fellow homeowner and an HOA employee with a unique perspective on the place we call home. The Dobson Ranch community is a vibrant tapestry of diverse individuals, each contributing something invaluable. Yet, there remains untapped potential to transform our shared spaces and strengthen our bonds. This letter is a heartfelt invitation to step forward, raise your voice, and embrace the power you hold in shaping our collective future. For 20 years, I was uninvolved in the Ranch, too focused on a career and too busy raising a family. However, almost a year ago I accepted a position at the HOA and since then, I have gained a great deal of insight. Let me share why your involvement matters and how your contributions can make a difference.
The Power of Your Voice
In a community shy of 5,000 homes and with over 15,000 individuals, it’s easy to feel your voice doesn’t carry any weight. But I assure you, your input is essential. Without it, decisions may lack diverse perspectives, and our community’s potential may go unrealized. Silence can be misconstrued as consent, empowering a dedicated few to make decisions on behalf of everyone. By participating, you help ensure our community’s choices reflect all residents’ needs and dreams. The Board of Directors exists to serve the people of Dobson Ranch. Their decisions impact every aspect of our shared lives, from budgets to events and neighborhood policies. By voting, attending meetings, or sharing ideas, you influence these decisions, bringing innovation and resolving challenges. My unrealized power of a single voice left me wondering... What if? What If I was more involved? What if I had expressed my concerns?
Overcoming Barriers
Getting involved can seem daunting, but small actions make a big difference. Responding to a survey, attending a meeting, or sharing thoughts during a Board workshop conversation are simple yet impactful ways to contribute. Stay informed through emails, the Ranchers’ RoundUp, and attend community events—even as an observer. Remember, your voice adds value.
Building Participation Together
To thrive, our community must crave a culture of participation. Here’s how we can achieve this:
1. Seek out events or social gatherings that create good conversations with a shared thread of community engagement.
2. Stay current on the topics leading the discussions at the Board meetings and other Committee meetings.
3. Reach out to the HOA Administration for a conversation and let them know your thoughts and ideas.
4. Attend Board of Director Workshops and Meetings. (See website Calendar for dates and times.)
From Participation to Leadership
If you’re inspired to do more than participate in conversations, consider running for the Board of Directors. There is currently one open chair, and three more to be elected in April. Serving on the Dobson Ranch Board of Directors allows you to represent your neighbors, shape policies, and ensure decisions reflect shared values. Leadership is accessible to anyone with the heart and dedication to step up. Explore how you can hone your skills as a candidate, attend meetings, speak with current committees and board members, and discover the elements of Dobson Ranch you feel need your support. (Apply to be a candidate online or Scan the QR code at the beginning of this publication.)
A Call to Action
I challenge each of you to take one step toward Engagement this month. Attend a Board meeting in person or watch a Board meeting online. Share an idea to improve Dobson Ranch on social media and encourage your neighbors to join you. Together, let’s build a future and discover the full potential of Dobson Ranch. Our community’s strength lies in its people. By contributing, we create a neighborhood that’s not just a place to live but a place to belong. Let’s seize this moment to come together, listen, and lead. The power is in your hands. Let’s use it.
