Developing a Community

 A couple weeks ago I went on an overnight trip to Villa Nueva, a small community near the boarder of Honduras. CIEETS, the organization I work for, was there in partnership with ChristianAid. Together, we are starting what will be a long-term community development project. This was one of the first meetings that had been had with the community. Its goal was to work with Villa Nueva to identify their resources and weakness and together devope a plan for strengthening the community.

Based on that weekend, here is my "How-To Guide to Starting to Developing a Community"

 1. Take a look at what they have, the houses, wells, latrines, animals and fields.

2. Get everyone together - young, old, moms, dads, grandmas and grandpa.

 

3. Talk, a lot. Break into small groups, let everyone share and listen to what they have to say. Identify problems and celebrate strengths.

 3. Share with the whole group.

 4. Take a break for lunch.

 

5.  Be happy with the progress you made and make plans to come visit again soon.