This approach reflects a planning philosophy and a belief that working with the residents is the most effective way to set and achieve goals for a neighborhood. Several messages are conveyed to the residents at the workshops. First, there is an emphasis on asset-based planning and action. Residents are encouraged to identify neighborhood strengths and to use those strengths to achieve their goals for the neighborhood. By focusing on assets instead of problems or liabilities, we are better able to move forward with confidence that we can achieve results.
Assets are the things which the town or the neighborhood have under their control.
Leveraging these to solve problems is more important than focusing on an endless discussion of the problem itself. Residents are also challenged to develop new ways for them and the town to work together, to find new ways to do things. We stress that, while government is important and necessary, it is no substitute for individual responsibility and action. Schools and social service agencies are vital, but they are a poor substitute for family, neighborhood and community. If the local government believes it can solve all of the problems it is bound to fail and will become frustrated and disillusioned.