Why This Work Matters introduces you to the voices of 11 people who are doing the hard work of making communities better. They work in local and state and federal organizations, in governments and nonprofits, in planning, economic development, city management, downtown revitalization and more. In their own words, as clearly and honestly as they can put in writing, you'll hear how they manage the frustrations of this work - how they deal with political realities, with shortcomings, with bureaucracy and discouragement. And, maybe more importantly, you'll hear what they draw on to summon the courage and the bravery to keep at it. Hopefully, Why This Work Matters will help you find the courage to keep doing your Work That Matters, too.