Macasa Learning Center

Community Engagement, Solidarity and Citizenship

Grade 12 - 1st Semester

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

But what is community development?

Community development is a process where community members come together to take collective
action and generate solutions to common problems.

When asked “What is community development,” Bloomington, Illinois Alderman Jamie Mathy said,
“Anything dealing with people working together to make our community better can be put under
Community Development, whether those are social or economic needs. The goal is to make the
entire community stronger.” City-planning, beautification, and zoning are examples of community
development efforts.

Examples of Community Development

● A city with a large number of residents in severe debt launches a campaign to increase
financial literacy and assist community members in getting out of debt. Money from the city is
invested in programs to provide education and resources, from simple talks and materials
explaining how debt works to offering discounts on-budget software that will help them pay off
their debts quicker. The program lowers debt and increases citizens’ expendable income
(purchasing power). This money will better the city by allowing citizens to purchase property,
start businesses, save for retirement, and support other important local businesses and
initiatives.

● The main road of a once vibrant small city now comprises houses that are poorly maintained.
The community and local leaders decide to designate this neighborhood as a historic district
(or redevelopment), offering resources for homeowners in that area and requiring a certain
level of upkeep. The curb appeal of the district now brings citizens from local areas to the town
and helps raise property values, and a new restaurant has opened up to serve residents of this
neighborhood.

Why is Community Development Important?

Community development is important because it provides the foundation a city builds off to
improve the lives of its citizens. It creates strong, diverse communities that are able to attract
and keep talent, start and grow businesses, and overcome issues that arise. Citizens will be
happier, healthier, richer, and live longer lives. Businesses will have a larger base of customers
who can purchase their products and services, and the city will earn tax income to continue to
support important programs and reduce debt.

Note: Practice Personal Hygiene protocols at all times

 Macasa Learning Center
Community Engagement, Solidarity and Citizenship
Grade 12 - 1st Semester

When community development is effective, there is less crime, less disparity (inequality)
between citizens, better jobs available, a more talented workforce, and fewer overall issues
that impact residents. Community development doesn’t necessarily solve problems in a city; it
reduces problems and increases opportunities for growth. Without community development,
both economic and business development suffer greatly.

How to Facilitate Community Development in Your City?

Successful community development takes collaboration among stakeholders who are
dedicated to working together to define and solve problems within the community and pursuing
opportunities. It requires those not associated with the government (also known as the private
sector) to get involved through volunteering and take action. As a member of a community —
you are a stakeholder, and you can contribute to the development of your community.
Are you ready to help develop your community? There are many ways to get involved,
including:

● Attending a City Council meetingVolunteer to help at a local event hosted by the city
● Ask local representatives if they would be willing to go out for a cup of coffee to talk
● Serve on a Board
● Volunteer time for a Committee that helps with Community Development
● Volunteer to help people outside your usual circle of friends and influence
● Encourage others to be involved with local organizations

Note: Practice Personal Hygiene protocols at all times