Community Mapping (sometimes called asset mapping) is all about involving residents in identifying the assets of their neighborhood, looking at opportunities and creating a picture of what it is like to live there. The exercise is a valuable and effective method of community engagement simply because maps are visual and easy to relate to; like photos and videos they cut through communication difficulties to reveal feelings and ideas which otherwise might be hard to express. Every community has assets; facilities such and libraries and community centers, valued businesses, parks and forests are obvious. But most importantly the people and their capacities; organised community groups or individuals who have skills and talents. All of these things can be mapped to create a picture of the community which shows its capacity and it’s potential. Community mapping can encourage people become powerful advocates for the transformation of the spaces in which they live, becoming more civically minded in the process. It can also foster a sense of environmental and community responsibility in local residents. This toolkit will help you to conduct your own community mapping, from preparation through execution to
possibilities you may want to consider as you move forward.
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