Community Asset-Building Resources
Creating Community Places and Spaces
The revitalization of neighborhoods creates vibrant spaces that promote economic growth and social well-being. Reimagining common spaces such as parks, plazas, public squares, streets, and sidewalks unlocks opportunity for community development. Get inspired with the Eleven Principles for Creating Great Community Places and start your journey toward neighborhood revitalization
Strategic Collaborations Between Community Action Agencies and Tribal Entities
Through trust-building, strong governance, and shared decision making, Community Action Agencies can strengthen local capacity, uplift community development, and encourage the self-sufficiency of communities. Community Action Program Legal Services (CAPLAW)’s Strategic Collaborations Between CAAs and Tribal Entities case studies highlight the importance of Community Action Agencies, tribes, and tribal organizations collaborating to serve low-income tribal communities and the flexibility of Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) funding.
Connecting People and Places through Transportation Solutions
The Community Action Transit Forum explores how Community Action Agencies are coordinating and operating a wide range of transit solutions that help people and families stay connected to work, education, health care, and daily needs. The forum showcasing how volunteer driver programs, fixed-route services, non-emergency medical transportation, coordinated transit efforts, and on-demand models function in real communities. Additional resources, including the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) toolkit, are available from the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center (CCAM-TAC). The toolkit features an interactive state map, strategy resource guide, partnership strategies, mobile health strategies, and a funding guide.
Community Development Opportunities
Community Economic Development (CED) can help spark job creation and business growth in local communities. CED is a federal grant program that provides funding to private, non-profit Community Development Corporations (CDCs). Successful initiatives have included the development of affordable housing, community grocery stores, and childcare centers. The job opportunities created through CED funding offer living wages, competitive benefits, and the opportunity for career advancement.
Tools for Economic Development
Homegrown Tools is an online resource that shares real-world examples of successful small-town economic development. It offers case studies, practical strategies, and insights that communities have used to stimulate investment, create jobs, and strengthen local economies. Discover actionable ideas and approaches that can inspire your community’s growth and success.