Asset-Based Community Development

Why you need it:
Asset-Based Community Development is the idea that strong communities are built upon the positive contributions of all their members. Everyone has unique abilities and gifts to share - including people with disabilities. If we can focus on what people have to contribute, we will be able to draw upon informal community networks to help those we support find their place.

In the process of gathering information for our Biennial Plan, people with disabilities were asked for their input. One of the areas they wanted to work on was, "figuring out how to use a disability as a gift." If you are interested in supporting people with disabilities, you can play a role in helping them to identify their gifts, gain skills in meeting new people, and using informal networks to become involved in the community. The workshops in this strand will help you consider these issues and challenge your thinking about the role of support people and the nature of community.

Who should come:
This educational track is appropriate for anyone who provides direct support or is a family member or friend of someone with a disability. It is especially important for managers and supervisors who are looking for ways to "break out of the box" of traditional services and explore new ways of supporting people in the community.

Asset-Bassed Community Development - Part One

Educational Track:
                        ABCD

Dates:

Contact MDS for dates and times.
       

Presenter: Brian Remer

 

Communities are made up of not only buildings and individuals but also institutions and informal associations. In addition, communities depend upon the contribution of many people - doing whatever they do best - to get things done. Understanding the interactions of these various elements is key to knowing how to help someone fully participate in their community.

In this workshop you will identify the basic tenants of Asset-Based Community Development, define what is meant by a person's gifts and assets, and examine the various facets that compose a vibrant community.

After participating in this workshop, plan to attend Part Two!

Satisfies State Requirements:· He-M 1001.04 (e)(4) & (e)(7) Consumer Choice & The Quality of Life of the Individual

Asset-Bassed Community Development - Part Two

Educational Track:
                        ABCD

Dates:

Contact MDS for dates and times.
         

Time:

Presenter: Brian Remer

 

What does it take to know and access the informal social networks that will lead to full participation in the community? What is social capital and what value does it have in our day-to-day interactions? And what is the role of social service professionals in making the community connections that people with disabilities might need?

In this workshop you will learn the teaching skills necessary to help someone use their gifts and you will discover the strategies needed to support people as they take advantage of informal community networks.

Attend this workshop after participating in Part One!

Satisfies State Requirements:· He-M 1001.04 (e)(4) & (e)(7) Consumer Choice & The Quality of Life of the Individual