Outlines the rationale for promoting comprehensive development in troubled communities. Argues that such approaches employ strategies that address the social, physical, and economic needs and circumstances of community residents. Looks at historical and current approaches and examines the experience of the Ford Foundation's Neighborhood and Family…

Summarizes findings from studies that address the effects of assets on personal well-being, economic security, civic behavior, women's status, and children's well-being. Examines implications of asset-building demonstrations and research, presenting it as a new way of thinking about antipoverty strategies where resources are emphasized more than…

Reviews policy approaches to, and legislation for, community revitalization. Discusses how early federal policies contributed to the segregation and isolation of poor neighborhoods and describes how new community-based programs counter the urban disinvestment practices that fostered segregation. Outlines policies that recognize the need for…

Asserts social workers will be called on to respond to the continued dismantling of the federal social programs that sustain and support families and communities. Presents ideas to strengthen and expand community practice and community building, connects community practice and social development, describes the relationship between community…

Addresses barriers to family and community self-sufficiency. Asserts social workers need to understand the worldviews and values underlying political definitions of self-sufficiency to have a greater influence on social policy. Describes a more appropriate definition of self-sufficiency. Illustrates its usefulness with an example of community…

Discusses the rationale behind the movement to link services to schools through school-linked, family resource centers. Describes several exemplary program, already developed, and outlines the promise this movement holds as a major social work strategy for revitalizing communities. Focuses on parental involvement, skill development, and how to…