Policy is more than law. It is any agreement (formal or informal) on how an institution, governing body or community will address shared problems or attain shared goals. It spells out the terms and the consequences of these agreements and is the codification of the body's values -- as represented by those present in the policymaking process. Given who's usually present, most policies reflect the political agenda of the powerful and are usually concerned with the support and protection of private enterprise.

Efforts that engage community residents and give them a sense of their own power can make a real difference in a community's ability to solve problems as well as strengthen individual community members' sense of "community”. This type of organizing offers greater representation and more opportunities for participation. Anyone can get involved from new residents to those who have deep roots in their community; all it takes are folks willing to fight City Hall or whomever to make it safer for themselves and their families. What distinguishes them is how they fight. Instead of simply reacting to policymakers in a defensive mode, the key is to go on the offensive and approach legislators with their own carefully drawn legislation.

See the multiple options beyond legislation that communities have to affect policy and explore more Model Policies to see many successful examples local groups have had in their communities.