Asset-Based Community Development in San Antonio

Asset-Based Community Development

Asset-based community development (ABCD), a Northwestern University program, starts with discovering the assets present in the community. 

Through a resident engagement/mapping process that includes surveys, interviews and engagement activities, each neighborhood—working with its community connector—creates an asset map. The map can include community associations; institutions (such as schools and libraries); physical spaces (such as parks, vacant land, and buildings); local economy (such as businesses and institutions); and individuals (such as youths and older adults).

The asset map is a living document that reflects the ABCD frameworks’ commitment to “asking questions rather than giving answers.” By understanding the strengths and gifts within each neighborhood, community connectors can work to meet the needs and wants of the community, such as fitness programs and community gardens. Instead of treating individuals as clients, ABCD unlocks the power of the community by building relationships with its residents.