From What’s Wrong to What’s Strong — Rethinking Community Development
Introduction
Community development has long been dominated by top-down approaches that focus on problems, deficiencies, and needs. However, in his TEDxExeter talk, Cormac Russell presents a compelling case for a paradigm shift: one that begins with the strengths and assets already present in individuals and communities.
The Problem with Traditional Helping Models
Russell outlines the unintended harms caused by conventional methods of helping:
- People are defined by their deficiencies rather than their capacities.
- Resources often benefit service providers more than the intended recipients.
- Grassroots action is stifled by professional and bureaucratic control.
- Communities internalize negative labels, leading to dependency on external solutions.
These models, while well-intentioned, ultimately disempower the very people they aim to support.
Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)
Inspired by the work of John McKnight and Jody Kretzmann, ABCD focuses on identifying and mobilizing the existing strengths within communities. After conducting over 3,000 interviews in 300 neighborhoods, McKnight and Kretzmann identified six key assets that drive sustainable community change. These include:
- Individuals’ talents and skills
- Community associations
- Institutions
- Physical assets
- Economic resources
- Stories and culture
Real-World Applications
Leeds, UK
In Leeds, community builders trained under Russell’s program have focused on elderly care, especially combating loneliness. Rather than isolating seniors in programs, they are integrated into the heart of community life. The story of Robin, an elderly widower passionate about carving walking sticks, highlights how personal passions can spark communal engagement and purpose.
Wirral, UK
Frank, a community artist in Wirral, tackled environmental degradation by turning a littered beach into a symbol of civic pride—a pirate ship called the Black Pearl. Instead of relying on government clean-up efforts, Frank involved locals in a creative solution, thereby fostering community ownership and involvement.
Kigali, Rwanda
In Kigali, parents and community builders reimagined the role of education by integrating vocational training and community support. They addressed issues like street children and teacher welfare not through traditional policies, but through local collaboration and innovation.
The Philosophy of Mutual Liberation
Russell emphasizes that real change arises from mutual effort. Quoting Aboriginal elder Lilla Watson: “If you’ve come to help me, you’re wasting your time. But if you’ve come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” This sentiment underlines the importance of solidarity, co-creation, and shared ownership in development efforts.
Conclusion
The movement from focusing on “what’s wrong” to “what’s strong” challenges us to rethink how we support communities. It urges professionals, policymakers, and citizens to embrace a more respectful, inclusive, and empowering model of development—one that sees every individual not as a problem to be solved, but as a solution in waiting. By identifying and mobilizing local assets, communities can unlock their full potential and create enduring, meaningful change.
