Neighborhood Centers Inc. has adopted the "asset-based community development" approach to our work in Community Based Initiatives.
This model, developed by John Kretzmann and John McKnight at Northwestern University, proposes that individuals and organizations within neighborhoods have assets upon which economic, political and social strength can be built.
We know that significant community development can only take place when local residents are involved – when they are committed to investing themselves and their resources in making their neighborhoods stronger, safer, more vibrant and more inclusive, regardless of background, age or income.
Our approach also recognizes that individuals and communities already possess skills, knowledge and resources that can produce powerful benefits when neighbors are linked with neighbors.
At Neighborhood Centers Inc., community development efforts include these key elements:
Most of the programs are offered at our community centers, which are centrally located in six neighborhoods. For more information on the centers and the resources they offer, click here.