Community development models vary based on factors such as available funds, community needs, and economic situations. The three types of models are needs-based, goal-oriented, and asset-based. Local governments can use these models to drive community change and create long-term plans for projects.
Community development models enable people living in a particular area to improve their surroundings. Models vary widely based on many factors, some of which include individuals, available funds, community needs, and current economic situations. The different types of community development models are needs-based, goal-oriented, and asset-based. A community can use one or more models, either concurrently or over a long period of time, covering many phases of the community. Local governments can be the catalysts driving community change through these models.
Needs-based community development models focus on the specific needs of individuals or groups in a given area. For example, needs may arise for more schools, police services, or fire departments as the population of the community increases. Other times, infrastructure – such as roads and community buildings – can create a need for community improvements. Community managers and other local officials may need to hold meetings with local community members when using this model. The purpose of the meeting is to define the major needs of the community and then spend funds to correct the problems through development projects.
Goal-oriented models are very different from needs-based community development. Here, local officials can set goals – with or without community approval – that are to be met through community funds. Goals can be set in order to improve development in the short term. Goals can be far-reaching and may not exactly meet the needs of a community. In short, goals are needed to create a stable business environment, attract new businesses, and increase the livelihoods of those living in the surrounding areas.
Resource-based community development models depend on what elements a community may have at its disposal. For example, communities with large pools of cash can spend the resource on many different types of projects, employees, or building improvements. An example here would be upgrading a fleet of aging police vehicles on excess cash. Resource trading allows a community to increase its overall structure without spending money on an item that will go away in the near future. Resource-based developments often help a community improve the lives of many citizens simultaneously.
Community development models can take long periods of time to complete projects. In some cases, the community can create a five-year plan for prospective projects based on current income streams. These long-term plans require commitment and fortitude to resist political pressure to change the plans.
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