Family and Consumer Science : Community Development

Community Development

Community development in Washington County is more than just working with individual communities to set up programming for youth. It's about resetting the way we think, so that communities begin to work with youth and realize that no one program or event is the answer. Community Development is a process of bringing every facet of a community together, from residents (young and old), school, town and village officials, to congregations and businesses. It's about forming partnerships and networks that bridge any and all gaps that youth may fall through. In essence we leave no child behind in Washington County.

This is no easy feat, Community Development is no easy process, it is time consuming and hectic. But it ends with the ultimate opportunity. That opportunity is a solid cohesive community building developmental assets, that will impact every youth that it comes into contact with.

Developmental Assets are essentially building blocks for young people's successful growth and development. There are 40 Developmental Assets that are broken into eight categories by Search Institute and are as follows:

1. Support - Young people need to experience support, care, and love from their families and many others. They need organizations and institutions that provide positive, supportive environments.

2. Empowerment - Young people need to be valued by their community and have opportunities to contribute to others. For this to occur, they must be safe and feel secure.

3. Boundaries and Expectations - Young people need to know what is expected of them and whether activities are "in bounds' or "out of bounds".

4. Constructive Use of Time - Young people need constructive, enriching opportunities for growth through creative activities. Youth programs, congregational involvement, and quality time at home.

5. Commitment to Learning - Young people need to develop a lifelong commitment to education and learning.

6. Positive Values - Youth need to develop strong values that guide their choices.

7. Social Competencies - Young people need skills and competencies that equip them to make positive choices, to build relationships, and to succeed in life.

8. Positive Identity - Young people need a strong sense of their own power, purpose, worth and promise.

Communities such as Salem, Granville, Fort Edward, Argyle and Cambridge have dedicated themselves to this process. Argyle and Cambridge are still actively involved in Community Development and working with youth to make their communities a better healthier place to live and grow.

If you would like more information on building Assets in your community or home please contact Cathy Sweet cjs58@cornell.edu at 746-2330 x3361. Lets aim to help every child in Washington County to become a successful, caring and competent adult.