Achieving the long-term goals and specific concrete objectives of CO in and for a community of any size is challenging work, to say the least. A CO organization never starts with a level playing field. To develop, mature and succeed over time, it must constantly fight uphill battles. There is no roadmap to accomplishment. Resources are often in short supply.
Risks are high.
Launched in 1992, NOA has more than 1,000 dues-paying members and a larger affiliated community of more than 5,000 persons involved in CO, representing over 2,000 organizations. NOA supports people of color becoming organizers and encourages people from diverse communities to enter the CO field. Behind the success of any CO organization or effort are community organizers. 33 But CO work takes form within the dynamics of community and struggle, requiring organizers to have an extraordinary range of competencies. The organizer must thoroughly understand the characteristics and the power patterns of the community through extensive interviews and discussions with community members.