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Understanding Asset Based Community Development

May 5, 2025

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.