Lesson II Identifying community resources

Identifying Community

Resources

Lesson II

Learning objectives

At the end of the presentation, leaners should be able to:
1. Explain community resource identification
2. Explain 5 examples of community resources
3. Discuss 5 steps involved in community resource identification

Identifying community resources?

A process of identifying and locating the various organizations,

services, and supports available within a community such as

Examples of community resources

• Faith-Based Organizations: Churches, synagogues, mosques,

and other religious institutions that offer various forms of support
and community services.

• Volunteer Groups: Organizations that coordinate volunteer

efforts for community service and outreach.

• Business and Economic Resources: Local businesses and

chambers

of

commerce

that

contribute

to

economic

development and job creation.

Steps in mapping community assets

• Define the Scope and Objectives
Purpose: Determine the goal of mapping the assets, for example,
improving local services, enhancing community engagement,
planning development projects.
Scope: Decide the geographic area and types of assets to include
(e.g., neighbourhoods, entire city, specific types of resources).

Steps in mapping community assets

• Identify Asset Categories
Physical Assets: Building, parks, libraries and other infrastructures

Economic Assets: Local businesses, financial institutions, and
employment centers.

Human Assets: Skills, talents, and expertise of residents, including
volunteers and community leaders.

Steps in mapping community assets

• Identify Asset Categories
Social Assets: Community organizations, support groups, and
networks.
Cultural Assets: Arts and cultural institutions, heritage sites, and
local traditions.
Educational Assets: Schools, training centers, and educational
programs.
Health Assets: Clinics, hospitals, wellness programs, and mental
health services.

Steps in mapping community assets

• Gather Data
Community Surveys: Collect information from residents and local
organizations about available resources.
Public Records: Access data from government databases, reports,
and publications.
Interviews and Focus Groups: Engage with community leaders,
service providers, and residents to gather qualitative insights.

Steps in mapping community assets

• Create the Asset Map: It helps identify what assets are available,

where they are located, and how they can be leveraged for
community development

Select Mapping Tools: tools like GIS (Geographic Information
Systems), Google Maps, or specialized community mapping
software.
Design the Map: Include different layers or categories for various
asset types. Use symbols, colours, and labels for clarity.

Steps in mapping community assets

Analyse the Map
• Identify Patterns: Look for clusters of assets, gaps in coverage,

and areas of overlap.

• Assess Needs and Opportunities: Determine where additional

resources or improvements might be needed.

• Engage Stakeholders: Share the map with community members,

organizations, and decision-makers to gather feedback.

Steps in mapping community assets

Use the Map for Planning and Action
Resource Allocation: decision-making on where to focus
resources and efforts.
Strategic Planning: Inform development projects, community
initiatives, and policy-making.
Community Engagement: Use the map to foster collaboration and
build partnerships among local stakeholders.

Steps in mapping community assets

Update and Maintain the Map
Regular Updates: Periodically refresh the map to reflect changes in
the community.
Feedback Loop: Continuously gather input from users to improve
the map’s accuracy and usefulness.

Steps in mapping community assets

Share and Communicate
Public Access: Make the map accessible to the community
through online platforms, printed materials, or public displays.
Educational Workshops: Conduct sessions to explain the map’s
findings and how it can be used.