COMMUNITY

A specific group of people living in the same locality and who may share a common culture, values, and norms. Communities can also be defined by race, religion, ethnicity, age, occupation, political status, tribal affiliation, interest in particular problems or outcomes, or other common bonds. The term "community" encompasses worksites, schools, tribes, residential neighborhoods, business districts, recreational areas, and health and human service sites.		  
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  STAKEHOLDER

Any person, group, or organization that has a vested interest in the services provided by the organization. Examples: clients, consumers, personnel, funding organizations, referral organizations, vendors, and governmental bodies.		  
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  TRAINING

Instruction so as to make fit, qualified, or proficient in a skill or body of knowledge.		  
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Community Change Initiatives
  
Private Org Public Agency  

PA-CCI 3: Developing Partners’ Capacities and Connections

 
Community stakeholders are provided with opportunities to develop the skills and connections they need to participate in the initiative and thrive in the community.
Interpretation: Different techniques may be used to help stakeholders develop skills and cultivate networks. Examples of potential strategies include, but are not limited to: mentoring, coaching, modeling, workshops, conferences, and technical assistance provided by outside experts. Training may be provided to a group of stakeholders, or it may occur one-on-one, as an individual prepares to take on a specific task or role. Further, given the nature of community building initiatives and the extent to which stakeholders are to be involved in the process, partners’ capacities and connections should also be strengthened simply through their participation in the initiative.
Research Note: Some literature suggests that this type of training is an essential aspect of many initiatives. Building the capacity of community organizations, institutions, and residents is key to promoting the long-term health, sustainability, and self-sufficiency of a community.

PA-CCI 3.01

 

Individuals are provided with opportunities to:

  1. develop relevant skills, including organizing, leadership, problem-solving, decision-making, and group facilitation skills;
  2. cultivate positive connections and social networks with other community residents;
  3. connect with organizations and institutions in the community; and
  4. mobilize for action.

PA-CCI 3.02

 

Community organizations and institutions are provided with opportunities to develop and strengthen:

  1. their internal capacities, including their leadership and governance; and
  2. their networks and alliances with other community organizations and institutions.

PA-CCI 3.03

 
The initiative helps community residents, organizations, institutions, and other stakeholders connect with people, resources, and opportunities outside of the neighborhood.
Research Note: While communities should do all they can to develop their internal capacities, they also should not attempt to cut themselves off from broader society. Some literature suggests that efforts are more successful when community members establish ties with people, organizations, and resources beyond the community’s borders. For example, communities may learn valuable lessons from other community initiatives, or may use their relationships with outside agencies or officials to advocate for their needs and interests. Furthermore, since most residential neighborhoods do not have enough jobs to employ all their residents, many community members may need to work at jobs outside their neighborhoods.
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PURPOSE: Community Change Initiatives mobilize the community for action; strengthen the capacity of residents and agencies; build and improve neighborhoods; and lay the groundwork for future progress.
 
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