Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) - Nurture Development

Overview

• ABCD: An approach focused on sustainable community-driven development.
• It emphasizes linking micro-assets to the macro-environment for social improvement and economic development.
• Central idea: Communities can drive their development by identifying and mobilizing existing, often unrecognized assets.

Key Aspects of ABCD

1. Asset Based Approach

• Focuses on community assets rather than deficits.
• Involves identifying assets of individuals, associations, and institutions.
• Categories of Assets:
  • Individuals: Everyone has gifts and skills.
  • Associations: Small informal groups sharing common interests.
  • Institutions: Organized groups including government and businesses.
  • Place-Based: Land, buildings, and public spaces.
  • Connections: Social relationships and networks.

2. Deficit Based vs. Asset Based Comparison

• Deficit Based: Focus on problems, needs, and control by external agencies.
• Asset Based: Focus on possibilities, strengths, and citizen-led initiatives.
• Asset-based approach promotes shared ownership and community-driven change.

3. Power of Associations

• Associations should drive community development by leveraging support.
• Associations vs. Institutions:
  • Associations operate on voluntary agreement and creativity.
  • Institutions focus on structured, hierarchical control.
• ABCD values social relationships and participatory development.

4. Principles for Facilitating ABCD

• Recognizing every individual’s gifts.
• Building and nourishing community relationships.
• Engaging citizens as active participants, not just service recipients.
• Leaders should involve and motivate community members.
• Encourage listening conversations and community-driven solutions.

5. ABCD in Practice

• Steps for Implementation:
  1. Collect community stories to uncover gifts and motivations.
  2. Form a core group of committed individuals.
  3. Map the community’s gifts, skills, and assets.
  4. Find connectors to build relationships.
  5. Develop a community vision and plan.
  6. Empower associations to lead development actions.
  7. Use community strengths to attract external investments.

Conclusion

• ABCD is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a customizable approach based on community strengths.
• Success involves the community taking initiative with institutions serving to support.

Additional Resources

• Publications and Videos: Available for deeper insights into ABCD practices.
• Blog and News: Updates and stories about community initiatives.

Contact Information

• For more details, visit the Nurture Development website or get in touch through their contact information.