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Community Economic Development in Social Work: A Foundation for Social Change

Edison Mitchell

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Published in Community Economic Development In Social Work (Foundations Of Social Work Knowledge Series)

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Community Economic Development in Social Work (Foundations of Social Work Knowledge Series)

by Steven Soifer

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2274 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	586 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Community economic development (CED) is a critical aspect of social work practice, aiming to empower communities to achieve economic prosperity and social justice. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of CED in social work, examining its principles, strategies, and impact on social well-being. As social workers, it is essential to understand the role CED plays in promoting community development and addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Principles of Community Economic Development

Community-Driven: CED places community members at the center of the development process, ensuring their involvement in decision-making and implementation.
Asset-Based: CED focuses on identifying and leveraging community strengths and resources, rather than solely addressing deficits.
Collaboration: CED involves partnerships between community organizations, businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
Empowerment: CED seeks to build capacity within communities, enabling them to take charge of their own economic development.
Sustainability: CED aims to promote long-term economic growth and social well-being, considering both present and future generations.

Strategies for Community Economic Development

Social workers employ a range of strategies to promote CED, including:

Community organizing: Mobilizing residents to identify community needs and advocate for policy changes.
Community development corporations: Non-profit organizations that provide financial assistance, technical support, and community development services.
Microfinance: Providing small loans and financial education to low-income individuals and small businesses.
Community-based enterprises: Businesses that are owned and operated by community members, generating revenue and employment opportunities.
Affordable housing development: Creating safe and accessible housing for low-income families.

Impact of Community Economic Development

CED has a profound impact on social well-being, including:

Economic empowerment: Creating job opportunities, increasing incomes, and promoting business development.
Poverty reduction: Addressing the root causes of poverty by providing resources and economic opportunities to disadvantaged communities.
Improved health and well-being: Economic stability contributes to better health outcomes, reduces stress, and enhances quality of life.
Strengthened community bonds: CED fosters collaboration and engagement, building stronger relationships between community members.
Societal transformation: CED promotes social justice, equity, and inclusion, contributing to a more just and equitable society.

Community economic development is an essential pillar of social work practice, enabling communities to achieve economic prosperity and social justice. By understanding the principles and strategies of CED, social workers can empower communities to take control of their economic development, reduce poverty, and create a more equitable and sustainable society. As we strive towards creating a better world for all, CED remains a powerful tool for social change, transforming communities from within.

Community Economic Development in Social Work (Foundations of Social Work Knowledge Series)

by Steven Soifer

4.9 out of 5