Blog

As we close out this series on community engagement, below are some successful relational organizing examples from initiatives that embody many of the elements of collective impact.

Collective impact is critical to neighborhood revitalization. Neighborhoods are complex environments where many systems operate. Systems such as: commerce, health care, education, criminal justice and so on usually operate in their own “silo” disconnected from all other systems operating in this place.

In many instances community development efforts start by first identifying problems and then posing solutions. After this initial set of concepts are envisioned, “community outreach” is undertaken – with the best of intentions.

There are many urban neighborhoods and small rural communities whose “better days” are a distant memory. Revitalizing these locations would have a positive impact on the region in which they exist while providing better opportunities for local residents. In countless settings, across the country, governments, philanthropy, the private sector, and non-profit actors are working hard to re-invigorate these places. To be successful a “collective impact” approach is absolutely necessary.