Asset Based Community Development (ABCD)

It’s simple. It works. I’ve seen it with my own eyes.

“Asset-based community development (ABCD) is a methodology for the sustainable development of communities based on their strengths and potentials. It involves assessing the resources, skills, and experience available in a community; organizing the community around issues that move its members into action; and then determining and taking appropriate action. This method uses the community’s own assets and resources as the basis for development rather that relying on continuous external aid; it empowers the people of the community by encouraging them to utilize what they already possess.”*

At first I was challenged. Does this mean that disadvantaged communities have ALL the resources they need to solve community problems? No! It still recognizes that “systemic injustice may require disadvantaged communities to seek assistance from outside the community”* But external interventions will be much more effective when a community values itself to its full potential.

ABCD programs affirm the unique value of every human being and their potential to  positively contribute to their community. Our Father said it best: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Love and Hands – Kigali, Rwanda from Jennifer Olson on Vimeo.