1 Mobilization

Types of mobilization Community mobilization Usually involves a change agent organizing/mobilizing at the community level Often involves civil society organizations working at the grassroots/school level Popular Mobilization Creating a mass movement to take action and put pressure on decision makers for social change 2

Elements to consider in community mobilization Culture Age bracket or difference Language used Irrelevance of the message Use of complex vocabulary/technical jargon Physical presentation – mode of dress, stance, mannerisms Environment Sitting arrangement Unreceptive audience Bad timing for the message 3

Community Mobilization Audiences For mobilization to be effective, messages need to be tailored to specific audiences, including: Women Parents Farmers Local community leaders, Youth Etc Who else? 4

Community entry-points CBOs Community heads Youth leaders Market sellers Artisans and craftsmen Health workers Etc Who else? 5

Step 1 - Define the community The community mobilization process starts by defining the community. This can be done geographically, politically, or demographically. A community can be a town, city, county, or district. It can also be a housing project, school district, or school. This exercise will help define whom you serve and what the coalition can do. 6

Step 2 – Community profile This process entails getting to know your community well. Information is gathered over time from several sources (census, county, etc.) and with help of the coalition. This step helps identify different groups to include in your coalition. It also helps you approach your community and solve communication problems. 7

Step 3 – Inform others As you inform others about your coalition: Consider who needs to know about your efforts and who else should be invited into the group. Be consistent with your message to others. Community Mobilization takes time and energy. Continue with your efforts until you feel that there is interest and there are resources for your community group/coalition. 8

Step 4 – Obtain commitment As community group/coalition, you would need to establish collaboration and motivate other groups to work together. Develop collaborative relationships with: The public and private sectors Regional, state, and national organizations Academics institutions Etc. They can help you with capacity-building, problem- solving, data analysis, etc. 9

THANK YOU

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