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Asset-based community development focuses on identifying and utilizing the strengths and assets of a community to mobilize and strengthen them, rather than focusing on problems and needs. The approach involves identifying five main assets: individuals, associations, institutions, physical assets, and social connections, with a strong emphasis on social capital. The goal is to create a community-driven development environment through participatory development.
Sustainable development in communities is traditionally approached by focusing on community problems and needs and trying to find solutions. Asset-based community development, however, takes a different approach. Instead, the focus is on the unrecognized strengths and assets available to the community and using them effectively to mobilize and strengthen them. The aim is to bring associations, individuals and institutions together in an effort to build their assets collectively. Through these efforts, the community is in a better position to recognize and respond to economic opportunities.
As a first step, considerable effort is put into identifying assets in the community. This happens at the individual, associative and institutional level independently and involves a meticulous process. Once assets are properly identified, they are aligned with individuals and organizations that have an interest or need for them. Rather than focusing on what the community needs, asset-based community development starts with the assets and resources already available, marking a major shift away from traditional wellness-based approaches.
Emphasis is based on local associations that the community is passionate about. These associations and positions are the driving force behind asset-based community development. Tracking all community assets, they provide the interconnections between all participants who have assets or need assets, but through a process that multiplies the effectiveness of the assets. Leaders in asset-based community development take a hands-on approach, allowing associations to take the role, thereby creating an environment where development is community driven. Therefore, the core principles of the approach are rooted in participatory development, whereby active participation creates empowerment rather than empowerment.
Five main assets are commonly identified in asset-based community development. Identifiable assets include individuals, associations, institutions, physical assets and social connections. Community residents have skills, gifts, and assets that are utilized, while associations provide a platform for people with common interests. Institutions such as businesses, governments and schools provide valuable resources and are leveraged to help identify and capitalize on resources. . Physical assets such as property, space and capital are identified, while connections are strongly encouraged through community socialization, often through local associations.
Social capital is a strong focal point in asset-based community development. In order to increase the community production potential, emphasis is placed on establishing networks and rules, thus creating trust. By building these networks, an environment of goodwill and obligation is created, leading the community to collective action. Thus, asset-based community development is often considered the practical application of social capital.
Asset Smart.
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