"Great neighborhoods are composed of great businesses, great planning and great neighbors," said neighborhood association president Ed Rast. "But it's difficult to secure funds and volunteers for events alone. It would be that much easier if associations worked together."

The initial partnership idea was intended to bring the community closer together, Rast said. These partnerships are frequently found in the work environment but it's a new concept with neighborhood associations.

"Willow Glen has been a leader in this," he said.

The neighborhood association has started its outreach to the school district and business association by inviting them to give updates at the monthly meetings.

"A partnership with the neighborhood and business association has many benefits," said Pam Foley, San Jose Unified School District trustee, who represents Willow Glen schools.

These benefits could include increased school visibility and promotion of school activities, Foley said. This partnership could also mean increased outreach to the parents and financial assistance for the schools.

Willow Glen Business and Professional Association president Don Skipwith agrees.

"It's a matter of understanding each other's perspectives and seeing the areas in which we can work together to make things happen," he said.

In an effort to accomplish these goals, the neighborhood association has divided its board into subcommittees to reduce time constraints and involve more community members.

The committees include planning and land use, public safety and code enforcement, and member services.

"The committees were formed according to residents' interest," Rast said.

Earlier this year, the neighborhood association circulated a survey with its newsletter to residents asking what goods and services they wanted from existing and potential businesses in downtown Willow Glen. The results of that input ignited the idea to branch out and work with other organizations within the community.