Community Building in and Around Supportive Housing
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Description:
A community is a group having common interests, common goals and/or common possessions or participation. Characteristics of a healthy and
"developed" residential community include: Mutual SupportConcern for Each Other's Safety
Respect for Each Other's Property Mechanisms for Promoting Common Interests Addressing Problems Actively pursuing a positive sense of community within the residence and integrating the residence into the neighborhood can have powerful benefits for both the staff and the residents. Community building efforts can help: Empower residents by giving them real authority and input and teach them skills needed to impact their environment. Increase and improve social and psychological ties among community
members.Foster stability and a sense of belonging. Increase opportunities for communication and socialization among peers
and between staff and residents. Actively promote a set of positive norms that counteracts the development of negative communities.Combat isolation that can result in psychiatric deterioration and/or relapse. Decrease the likelihood that the residence will become an isolated source of social, vocational and/or religious opportunities for residents. Appeal to applicants who may be considering tenancy and don’t wish to live in a setting that feels institutional. Identify and address physical problems in the building and improve safety and security. Ensure a greater degree of customer satisfaction in service delivery.
Promote the development of residents' advocacy and organizational skills. (Authors)
Type of Resource:
Toolkits/Curricula/Training Materials
Publication Date:
2003
Location:
Washington, D.C.