Community Centered Development
The Principles
POSITIVE PRINCIPLE
By focusing on the strengths and assets instead of the needs and deficiencies, the community is able to grow the building blocks needed for their own development, while at the same time, fostering a mentality of hope and self-belief.
WHOLENESS PRINCIPLE
When everyone is included in the community-building process (including the weak, the poor, and the voiceless) the increase in cooperation, sharing, and trust will ultimately lead to a healthier, more resilient community.
OWNERSHIP PRINCIPLE
When a community has the power to see the vision for their projects, use their own resources, and do the work themselves, they have a far greater chance of success.
ORGANIC PRINCIPLE
Both the power and the blueprint for community growth lie within the community itself.
WONDER PRINCIPLE
When people are given the space and the freedom to ask questions and imagine possibilities, the community is better able to discover what it truly cares about and desires to achieve.
MOMENTUM PRINCIPLE
It is in the very act of moving towards their goals that the community begins to uncover the critical ingredients in the change process.
RELATIONAL PRINCIPLE
Strong and dynamic linkages between people in the community (formal and informal) are the building blocks necessary for positive community change.
TRANSFORMATIONAL PRINCIPLE
The key ingredients to creating positive community change is people who have moved from a self-perception of weakness and dependency to a new paradigm of dignity and self-respect.