2018_0607_HRIEC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DEFINITIONS As of February 19,201 S After the first Engaged Learning event,the Building the Field partners noticed that even experienced commu- nity engagement practitioners offered a variety of definitions and understandings of some of the most frequently used terms in the field.The following are the working definitions the partners use to describe the elements of the model.Coming to a collective understanding about what these terms mean will help to build the field of commu- nity engagement. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT LEADERSHIP A process that includes multiple techniques to promote Using strengths to act and inspire,influence,and/or the participation of residents in community life,especially support others in building and supporting healthy com- those who are excluded and isolated,by engaging them in munities. collective action to create a healthy community. CIVIC ENGAGEMENT RELATIONSHIPS Full participation in the political process that promotes a The practice of community engagement requires the community's self-determination. building of authentic,long-term relationships involving trust,respect,and reciprocity. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Activities that encourage using local resources in a way IDENTITY that enhances economic opportunities while improv- Community engagement supports the maintenance,de- ing social conditions in a sustainable way. The common velopment,and/or reclaiming of a healthy sense of self for distinction between community development and com- individuals and includes a sense of belonging to groups munity engagement is that community development that give a person connection,continuity,and meaning. focuses more on place (bricks and mortar)whereas com- munity engagement focuses more on people. CULTURE/SPIRITUALITY Community engagement nurtures the practices,beliefs, SYSTEMS CHANGE traditions,and ways of knowing that create cohesion and Changes that impact all elements of an organization,in- give people a vision across generations. stitution,or system,including culture,structures,policies, rules,programs,staffing and the allocation of resources. HEALING Community engagement provides the space to draw EQUITY meaning from a personal or collective story,and recognize Fair access to resources and opportunities,full partici- and build on strengths and resilience.It acknowledges pation in the life and well being of the community,and and promotes wholeness. self-determination in meeting fundamental needs. POWER Community engagement activates and exercises the abili- ty to act for personal and community benefit. ©2018 Nexus Community Partners'Community Engagement Institute www.nexuscp.org