Development and change in communities occur whether we want them to or not. But by taking a proactive approach to development, we can look at different models for change and begin to pick and choose the ideas that we think might be the most helpful for our work or ministry. This is nothing new. Churches and ministries have been looking at the field of community development for a long time, but the application of these principles is sometimes hit and miss.

As Together for Hope (TFH) seeks to work alongside communities, we try to operate from a framework that is focused on the local capacities of the community, with a desire to connect with residents around their area of passion or interest. Often, churches who have similar gifts or interests find ways of developing relationships with these local communities. Along the way, we have the opportunity to see our rural neighbors in a different light, one that acknowledges their unique giftedness, and at the same time form relationships that result in needs like home repair or literacy that may be present being addressed as well.

The process that is the framework for TFH is informed by two primary developmental approaches. Asset Based Community Development and Training for Transformation. Each approach is focused on lasting community transformation but each differs in the key steps to lasting change or development. Both approaches can be and are being used in cross cultural locations, but it is important to note that Training for Transformation started and is rooted in developmental work in a number of countries in Africa, while Asset Based Community Development had its origins in the United States.

In many ways, the different approaches championed in Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) and Training for Transformation (TFT) combine to provide a helpful and holistic picture of community development.

• TFT uses much of the need-based language and focus
• ABCD consistently reminds us that the community should be the source of decisions and understood as a place filled with assets as opposed to filled with primarily needs.

ABCD begins with belief that everyone and every community has assets that are useful. It is an easy jump from there to the theological claim that God is present in every person. Thus, in TFH, we seek to find in each person and in every community assets that are a testament to God’s blessing and graciousness. While not completely focused on the deficiencies of a community, TFT approaches the community work from the position that God is present with all, however, some need help in finding God’s presence at certain times. Therefore, the idea behind TFT is to awaken the knowledge of God’s presence as a catalyst for more formation.

Over the course of my experience with ABCD work in particular, the main virtue has been patience. The work, if properly done, occurs over a considerable period of time. There is a natural inclination for us to desire immediate change; however, such motives lead us to approach communities ready with a “solution” instead of allowing us to be present with a community to listen to what residents have to say. Personally, the virtue that I also find of great comfort in this sustained work is the knowledge or trust that it is God who gives the growth and changing momentum to our work. In some way, this belief connects others and me to the Christian story and promise of transformation in the midst of doubt.