1. Asset-based approaches and community development
VOX Training – Wednesday 27th March 2013

2. Learning Outcomes By the end of the session participants will:
Have a fuller understanding of asset-based approaches in community development
Have explored methods and practical approaches to map community assets/ assess community strengths
Have explored and discussed approaches and methods to build community assets

3. Definitions of Community
“the people living in one particular area or people who are considered as a unit because of their interests, background or nationality” Cambridge Dictionary
“people who communicate and interact with one another, on the basis of common residence in an area, or a shared interest, to fulfil their needs” SCDC
Community of geography: any community connected by common residence in a physical neighbourhood or larger area
Community of interest: any community connected by common understandings, identity or interest

4. As easy as ABCD!

5. Asset-based community development
“Building on the skills of local residents, the power of local associations, and the supportive functions of local institutions, asset-based community development draws upon existing community strengths to build stronger, more sustainable communities for the future.”
Website of the Asset-Based Community Development Institute

6. Practical Examples Asset-based approaches in South Lanarkshire
Hillhouse and Fairhill – neighbourhood approach
Asset-based approaches in health
Health Issues in the Community
Community health initiatives – Mearns Healthy Living Network, Pilmeny Development Project, Golden Times - Merkinch

7. Asset Mapping – defining assets
What makes us a strong community?
2. What do we do as a community to make people feel better?
3. What makes this a good community to be part of?
4. What factors help us to cope in times of stress?
5. What makes us healthy in mind, body and spirit, as a community?

8. Building communities from the inside out