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abcd in canada

Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) shines a spotlight on the inherent strengths and capabilities of individuals. By acknowledging and harnessing these strengths, individuals are supported in proactively contributing to positive change within their communities. This space is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and application of ABCD principles and practices, ultimately inspiring and facilitating positive change across communities throughout Canada.

Rural community

Impact Story

reimaging rural communities using abcd

In the past, rural communities across Canada depended on settlers to build infrastructure, institutions, businesses, and housing so communities could thrive. Fast forward 100 years and rural communities are now looking to re-imagine themselves in the face of changing demographics, resource industries disappearing, radical changes in technology, and centralized government services. Learn how small, rural, and remote communities along the east shore of Kootenay Lake in BC brought residents together using an ABCD approach.

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Neighbourhood

Impact Story

building a neighbourhood plan - doing with not for

Traditional models of housing services are that they are responsible for social housing programs and property management of houses. But what if we changed the purpose of housing services so that they build a sense of community and support the development of neighbourhood plans? This is what Coordinators at the Lakeview Harbourside neighbourhood have been working on for the past year as members of Cities Deepening Community. This case study explores the role of the Coordinators and how they shifted away from doing for residents to supporting residents to do for themselves.  

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In our experience, communities that collaborate are more successful at addressing complex issues like poverty, equity, community safety, and community well-being because they can harness the talents, knowledge, and strengths of diverse perspectives.

 

getting started

ABCD at a Glance

ABCD At A Glance

ABCD Hands

Asset-Based Community Recovery Framework

Diversity & Inclusion

Is ABCD a Diverse and Inclusive Approach?

John McKnight ABCD

The Learnings of John McKnight

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The Four Components of Effective Collective Impact

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A History of the Asset-Based Community Development Institute

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abcd at tamarack

Heather is the Associate Director of Tamarack Institute’s Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) practice area. With over 22 years of experience in community development, she uses an ABCD approach to center people and belonging in the development of community plans and strategies through coaching and training staff teams, facilitation, and writing about ABCD and Belonging.

Get Involved

Join the ABCD Community of Practice

The aim of the monthly Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) CoP  is to go deeper on ABCD practice and explore helpful tools and resources by bringing together practitioners and residents who are applying or are seeking to apply an ABCD approach to their community development work.

Join ABCD CoP

Contact Heather to learn more: heather@tamarackcommunity.ca

ABCD (2)

Current Themes Being Explored: 
 

  • Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)
  • Asset Mapping
  • Community Development
  • Building Community Plans

featured resources


ARTICLE | Engaging Across Sectors
ARTICLE | Engaging Across Sectors
A group of people smiling and holding up chocolate moustaches. This is the team at Carman Wellness Connections.
CASE STUDY | Carman Wellness Connections
Why Community Engagement Is Essential to Climate Adaptation and Resilience
ARTICLE | Why Community Engagement Is Essential to Climate Adaptation and Resilience
What We Learned: Reflections from the Climate and Affordability Webinar Series
What We Learned: Reflections from the Climate and Affordability Webinar Series
Good Food, Great Planet!
Good Food, Great Planet!
Help us find our first COO
Tamarack Is Seeking Our Very First COO!
Perspectives on Building Belonging and Increasing Social Health
ARTICLE | Collaboration: Exploring the Collaboration Cycle
ARTICLE | Collaboration: Exploring the Collaboration Cycle
ARTICLE | Collaboration: The Mindsets and Skills of Collaborative Leaders
ARTICLE | Collaboration: The Mindsets and Skills of Collaborative Leaders
ARTICLE | Collaboration: What Problem Are You Trying to Solve?
ARTICLE | Collaboration: What Problem Are You Trying to Solve?
ARTICLE | Collaboration The Role of the Convener
ARTICLE | Collaboration The Role of the Convener
ARTICLE | Collaboration The Act of Building Trust
ARTICLE | Collaboration: The Act of Building Trust
ARTICLE | Collaboration: Beginnings and Endings
ARTICLE | Collaboration: Beginnings and Endings
ARTICLE | How We Frame Poverty Reduction and Why It Matters
ARTICLE | How We Frame Poverty Reduction and Why It Matters
Navigating Challenges: Embracing Transformative Action in Non-Profits
Navigating Challenges: Embracing Transformative Action in Non-Profits
Customized Financial Empowerment Program reduces poverty in Nelson, BC
Customized Financial Empowerment Program Reduces Poverty in Nelson, BC
ARTICLE | Building Authentic Connections for a More Equitable Future
ARTICLE | The Four Actions to Create an Asset-Based World
ARTICLE | Community as the Superhero
ARTICLE | Community as the Superhero
Research Shows Link Between Poverty and Criminalization
ARTICLE | Research Shows Link Between Poverty and Criminalization
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In 2016, Tamarack was chosen by renowned community-builder and ABCD founder John McKnight, to serve as the hub for ABCD in Canada. John's choice to entrust Tamarack with the stewardship of ABCD in Canada underscores the importance and uniqueness of our mission. He emphasizes, "we have numerous programs dedicated to policy and institutions, but lack sufficient initiatives focused on [supporting] citizens and associations to become producers in their neighbourhoods.”

ABCD’s emphasis on strengths, connections, citizen leadership, and its recognition that individual gifts become powerful when they are connected.

get in touch

We’re happy to answer questions, discuss community issues and direct you to trusted resources. Get in touch with a specific team member or submit a general inquiry.

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