Asset-based Community

Needs-based community development emphasizes local deficits and looks to outside agencies for resources. In contrast, asset-based community development focuses on honing and leveraging existing strengths within the community. wikipedia

Everyone has gifts: Each person in a community has something to contribute.

Relationships build a community: People must be connected in order for sustainable community development to take place.

Citizens at the center: Citizens should be viewed as actors—not recipients—in development.

Leaders involve others: Community development is strongest when it involves a broad base of community action.

People care: Challenge notions of "apathy" by listening to people's interests.

Listen: Decisions should come from conversations where people are heard.

Ask: Asking for ideas is more sustainable than giving solutions.

Inside-out organization: Local community members are in control.

Institutions serve the community: Institutional leaders should create opportunities for community-member involvement, then "step back.