It's about control and power, and who has it and who does not and who will have to let go and give some up. The problem is that resident participation is likely not to work when staff are reluctant or passive or defensive. Client participation works best if agency leadership sets the tone and promotes a culture in which the perspective of clients is important. Overcoming obstacles to forming empowerment groups. In social work, it is called client-centered management.
Resident participation is more than a practice with intrinsic value.
Well organized residents who have a collaborative relationship with their PHA will be more committed to the viability of their community, and to the political and financial survival of public housing. It is in the interest of PHA leadership to commit time and resources to a strong system of resident participation, and to foster activism among residents. When it comes time to argue for sufficient funding for public housing, residents will make the case. Resident participation is a good investment. Back to top .