Hope’s Community Engagement Work

Strong connection to the community surrounding Hope is at the center of our work.

We draw from many models – community organizing, asset-based community development, community building strategies, and others. But the specifics emerge organically from our work in the community.

We relate to people as citizens of their community, not clients.

Involvement is always voluntary and not limited to tenant participation There are many ways that people can connect to Hope Community all unified around some common principles:

• Instead of focusing on narrow governance (a few people in a formalized group) we develop strategies for broad connection to the community.
• We create opportunities for people to build power for themselves and their community.
  
• At the center of our work are respect, recognition of power, and mutual accountability.
  
• In everything we do we recognize strength and possibility.
  
• All Hope Community programs are designed to further multi-cultural community involvement, leadership and engagement. 
  
   

Specific elements of the work include:

• Community Listening – over 1400 adults and youth have participated in dialogues about their community through Hope.
• Organizing and Leadership Training – opportunities to learn about power and strategy so people can act together and build power for themselves and their community.
• Programs for over 200 diverse children and teens each year that give them a central place in the community.
• The Hope Learning Center where over 150 adults move closer to educational and job goals each year.
• Community and cultural activities, events and celebrations