Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 12

Fundamentals of Social Work
● Perceptions of problems in the environment can motivate individuals (and
organisations) to act to improve the community. (Chavis et al., 1990)11
When people share a strong sense of community they are motivated and
empowered to change problems they face, and are better able to mediate
the negative effects over things which they have no control (Chavis et al.,
1990, p. 73)11. Moreover, a sense of community is the glue that can hold
together a community development effort (Chavis et al., 1990, p. 73-74)11.
An example of this is the ground work at the South Central Community
Family Service Centre. This concept suggests that programmes that “foster
membership, increase influence, meet needs, and develop a shared
emotional connection among community members” (Chavis et al., 1990,
p. 73)11 can serve as catalysts for change and for engaging individuals and
involving the community to be part of decisions that affect their environment
and well being.
The literature also suggests that another important element of community
engagement relates to empowerment - mobilising and organising
individuals, grassroots and community-based organisations, and institutions,
and enabling them to take action, influence, and make decisions on critical
issues. One way of empowerment is to provide important tools and resources
so that residents of the community can act to gain better mastery over their
lives.
The community organisation approach also shows findings that individuals
and communities: (i) must feel or see a need to change or learn, and (ii)
are more likely to change attitudes and practices when they are involved
in group learning and decision-making (Minkler, 1990)13. An important
element of community organising is helping communities look at root causes
of problems while at the same time selecting issues that are simple and
specific and easier to address to unite members of the group, involve them
in finding a solution, and helping to build the community or organisation
(Minkler, 1990)13.
Community organising can be an empowering process for individuals,
organisations, and communities. At the individual level, community
organising activities provide individuals with the chance to feel an increased
sense of control and self confidence and to improve their coping capacities
(Minkler, 1990)13. These have physical health benefits. Organising activities
also strengthens the capacity of communities to respond to collective
13

Minkler M. Improving health through community organization. In: Glanz K, Lewis FM, Rimer
BK, (editors). Health behavior and health education: theory, research and practice. San
Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers; 1990.
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