These networks are so diverse that even if someone identifies strongly with their ethnic group, they have probably developed trust and mutuality only with a smaller group of people, based on shared experience and values. For example, Asians in this country are often treated or talked about as one homogenous group. Yet there are dramatic differences in language, culture, and historic conflict among Asian homelands. To find a true sense of community, you need to look more deeply at the qualities of people, not just where they live or what they may look like. Too often the terms neighborhood and community are used interchangeably.
People often know they share the same neighborhood but don t feel much community.
Most Americans do not turn to their neighbors when they lose a job or have problems with their teenager. Instead, they turn to friends and family with whom they feel a sense of community, even if they live far away. People-based initiatives targeting those on welfare, the homeless, or even children see the primary community as the group of clients they are serving. Such categorical targeting is done for the convenience and control of the funding source, not for the benefit of the recipient. If you were to ask these moms what would help them most in the long term, you d find that job opportunities and support services for their children, partners, and extended families would be a priority.