Placemaking is a multi-layered process within which citizens foster active, engaged relationships to the spaces which they inhabit, the landscapes of their lives, and shape those spaces in a way which creates a sense of communal stewardship and lived connection. 

This is most often accomplished through a creative reclamation of public space: projects which take the form of benches on street corners where neighbours can sit, rest and talk with each other, kiosks on sidewalks where neighbors can post information about local events, needs and resources and street paintings in the public right-of-way that demonstrate to all who pass through that this is a Place: inhabited, known and loved by its residents. 

In all instances, these projects are undertaken by local communities who come together to discuss what it is they want in their neighborhood - what elements are lacking in the public sphere and how the community can work together with the resources they have to create their own place.

Placemaking touches upon deeper societal issues and contributes to participatory democracy. As the process of developing a community place proceeds; people develop deeper relationships and more energy to create together because they live together.

Creating a common ground that transcends the differences among people powerfully addresses isolation and creates an environment where people feel like they can do anything they set their collect minds to.