Mark Latta - Future Focused Planner and Non-Profit Consultant

Imagining Better Futures: A Conversation with Mark Latta

Mark Latta, a community-focused educator and founder of City Rising, discusses the long-term impacts of historical decisions, the concept of futurity, and his efforts to encourage future-oriented thinking. He shares his journey from teaching at a juvenile correctional facility to community engagement at Marian University, emphasizing the importance of allowing individuals to envision their own futures. Mark talks about the unique character of the Near East Side of Indianapolis, the challenges posed by redlining, the potential for harm reduction, and the importance of local community efforts in shaping a better future.

00:00 Introduction to Mark Latta and City Rising

01:18 Mark's Journey in Education and Community Engagement

02:58 Challenges and Realizations in Higher Education

06:12 Imagining a Better Future

09:24 The Impact of Redlining and Community Disparities

11:46 Personal Reflections and Community Building

21:27 Living in Indianapolis and Building Community

28:57 Questioning Life in Indianapolis

29:49 The History and Transformation of Windsor Park

32:12 Community Spirit and Neighborhood Dynamics

34:37 Challenges and Changes in Indianapolis

35:57 Reflections on Leadership and City Development

39:56 Future Thinking and Community Spaces

43:28 Unique Flavor of Indianapolis

47:03 Final Thoughts and Next Steps