Community Development
Definition of Community Development
Community development is a collaborative process where residents work together to improve their
community's social, economic, and environmental conditions. It's about empowering people and
building stronger, more resilient communities.
Community development is a process where community members come together to take collective
action and generate solutions to common problems. This process is a cornerstone of social change,
emphasizing the importance of building stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable communities.
Here, we'll explore the multifaceted meaning of community development, its key principles,
methodologies, and impacts.
Definition & Scope
Community development involves various activities aimed at improving the social, economic, and
environmental well-being of a community. It encompasses a broad spectrum of efforts, including
education, health, housing, economic opportunity, and social justice. The goal is to empower individuals
and groups by providing them with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to effect change and
improve their quality of life.
Aims and Objectives
Community development aims to foster social, economic, and environmental improvements within a
community by empowering its members and promoting sustainable growth. Here are the key aims and
objectives:
Aims
Empowerment
To enable individuals and groups within the community to develop the skills,
confidence, and capacity to influence their own lives and the decisions that
affect them.
Sustainability
To create long-lasting improvements by addressing the root causes of issues
rather than just treating symptoms, ensuring that changes are enduring and
beneficial over time.
Social Cohesion
To build stronger, more united communities where individuals feel
connected, supported, and valued, enhancing overall social harmony.
Economic Development
To improve the economic conditions of the community by creating job
opportunities, promoting local businesses, and supporting economic
initiatives that lead to financial stability and growth.
Quality of Life
To enhance the overall well-being of community members by improving
access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing, and
fostering a safe, healthy environment.
Objectives
Participation and Inclusion
Ensure active involvement of all community members in decision-making
processes. Promote inclusivity, making sure that marginalized and
underrepresented groups have a voice.
Capacity Building
Provide training and education to enhance the skills and knowledge of
community members. Develop leadership abilities within the community to
foster self-reliance and initiative
Resource Mobilization
Identify and utilize local resources, including human, financial, and natural
assets. Seek external funding and partnerships to support community
initiatives
Community Planning and Development
Conduct needs assessments to understand the priorities and challenges of
the community. Develop and implement strategic plans that address these
needs in a systematic and organized manner.
Economic Empowerment
Support local entrepreneurship and small businesses through grants,
training, and networking opportunities. Create job opportunities and
pathways for economic advancement for community members
Social Services and Infrastructure
Improve access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and
housing. Develop and maintain community infrastructure like roads, parks,
and public spaces
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Advocate for policies and practices that benefit the community at local,
regional, and national levels. Engage with government and other
stakeholders to influence decisions that impact the community.
Silent Features of Community Development
Community development is characterized by several salient features that
guide its processes and outcomes. These features ensure that community
development initiatives are effective, inclusive, and sustainable. Here are the
key salient features:
Community Participation
- Involves active involvement of community members in the planning,
decision-making, and implementation of development projects.
- Ensures that the voices of all community members, including
marginalized and underrepresented groups, are heard and considered.
Inclusivity
- Strives to include all segments of the community, regardless of age,
gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status.
- Promotes equality and ensures that development benefits are shared
equitably.
Holistic Approach
- Addresses various aspects of community life, including social, economic,
environmental, and cultural dimensions.
- Recognizes the interconnectedness of different community needs and
aims for comprehensive development.
Needs-Based
- Begins with a thorough assessment of the community’s needs, priorities,
and strengths.
- Ensures that development initiatives are relevant and tailored to the
specific context of the community.
Local Leadership
- Supports the development of local leaders who can champion community
development initiatives.
- Encourages leadership that is representative of and accountable to the
community.
Cultural Sensitivity
- Respects and incorporates the cultural values, traditions, and practices of
the community.
- Ensures that development initiatives are culturally appropriate and
resonate with community members.
Philosophy of Community Development
The philosophy of community development is supported by Robert Chambers
in “Rural Development: Putting the Last First” (1983), who argues that
development should be people-centered and inclusive, ensuring that all
voices, especially those of the marginalized, are heard and considered.
It Is a philosophy of social change that aims to improve the economic, social,
and physical conditions of a specific community and its residents( Elgar,
2020).
Additionally, community development values local knowledge and
leadership, recognizing the importance of indigenous wisdom and local
context in shaping development strategies. This perspective is supported by
Fals Borda in “Participatory Action Research” (1987), which emphasizes the
role of local knowledge in the research and development process.
. Focuses on Improving the abilities and skills within the community to help
them address their own issues. Seeks to address underlying social issues
that affect communities, promoting equality and justice.
Community development seeks to strengthen the capacity of community
members to act collectively to improve their physical, social, economic, and
political environment. Community development builds sustainable places
through participation and empowerment.
Approaches/Methods to the Study of
Community Development
The study of community development involves both approaches and
methods that provide a structured framework for understanding and
facilitating positive changes within communities. Here are five important
combined points that highlight key approaches and methods:
Participatory Approach and Community Surveys
- Approach: Engages community members in all stages of development
projects, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
- Method: Conducts community surveys to collect quantitative data from a
representative sample, assessing needs, preferences, and the impact of
initiatives.
Asset-Based Community Development and Community
Mapping
- Approach: Begins with a thorough assessment of the community’s needs
and challenges, prioritizing the most pressing issues identified by the
community.
- Method: Employs PRA techniques like mapping, ranking, and seasonal
calendars to gather and analyze information, actively involving community
members in data collection.
