Community development is a progressive journey that empowers people and communities to change their own communities for the better, with numerous efforts put toward the increase in quality of life, prosperity, and environmental enhancement. This paper details the importance of community development and several methods through which people can contribute to it.
What Is Community Development?
Community development involves working as a group to tackle issues, strengthen resilience and enhance the quality of life. The Scottish Community Development Centre (SCDC) emphasizes that community development is based on values of justice, fairness and appreciation for diversity. Its goal is to empower communities to recognize and address their challenges promoting independence and ensuring that every ones input is considered in decision making.
The Role of Community Development
Community building can never be emphasized enough. It serves as building blocks for socially well-arranged members of society where every individual can prosper. According to Consult Straza, community development enables individuals to take control of their circumstances and make the best decision. It facilitates the containerization of relations and also inculcates feelings of togetherness and mutual understanding between members in the society. In addition, it fosters development through resource utilization as well as environmental care.
Contribution to Community Development: How to
There are many ways in which a person can contribute to community development. Future.edu says it is very important to participate and collaborate in this process. People can participate through initiatives, volunteering, and giving support to community-driven initiatives. Furthermore, one must inform oneself about what exactly is happening in the community and advocate for necessary changes. The point is to make it belong to all.
In other words, more work is involved in community building than simply renovating buildings. It is more about people being empowered, included, and forming intense self- sustaining communities. By learning the principles and engaging in the processes, everyone can be involved to be the shape of a better-brighter future for their communities.
Author: Norah Ahdel
References
• SCDC. "What is Community Development?" Accessed August 27, 2024.
[https://www.scdc.org.uk/who/what-is-community-
development](https://www.scdc.org.uk/who/what-is-community-development)
• Consult Straza. "Community Development: What It Is, Its Importance, and How to
Contribute in Your City." Accessed August 27, 2024.
[https://www.consultstraza.com/community-development-what-it-is-its-importance-and-
how-to-contribute-in-your-city/]( https://www.consultstraza.com/community-development-
what-it-is-its-importance-and-how-to-contribute-in-your-city/)
• Future.edu. "Community Development." Accessed August 27, 2024.
[https://www.future.edu/2022/10/community-
development/](https://www.future.edu/2022/10/community-development/)
