You’re passionate about community organizing. How can you make a difference in the lives of those you serve?

1 What is community organizing?

Community organizing is the process of bringing people together to identify common problems, develop solutions, and take collective action. Community organizers work with diverse groups of people, such as residents, workers, activists, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies, to build power and influence decision-makers. Community organizing can address a variety of issues, such as social justice, environmental protection, economic development, health care, education, and more.

2 Why is community organizing important?

Community organizing is important because it empowers people to have a voice and a stake in the issues that affect their lives. Community organizing can also challenge the status quo and create systemic change by holding institutions and authorities accountable. Community organizing can foster a sense of belonging, solidarity, and mutual support among people who share common goals and values. Community organizing can also inspire and motivate people to become more engaged and active citizens.

3 How can you develop your community organizing skills?

Developing your community organizing skills can be achieved through practice, education, and mentorship. To begin, you can join or start a community organization that aligns with your interests and values. You can find existing organizations online, through social media, or by attending events and meetings in your area. Alternatively, you can create your own organization by reaching out to people who share your vision and goals. Additionally, you can learn from experienced community organizers by reading books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or watching videos that feature their stories, strategies, and insights. You may even seek mentorship or guidance from a community organizer who is willing to share their knowledge and skills with you. Furthermore, you can participate in trainings and workshops such as courses, webinars, seminars teaching the fundamentals of community organizing or workshops offering hands-on exercises and feedback on specific aspects of community organizing.

4 How can you apply your community organizing skills?

Community organizing skills can be used to address any issue or cause that you’re passionate about. To apply your community organizing skills, first identify the problem and the solution. Use data, stories, or testimonials to support your analysis and vision. Next, you need to identify your target and potential allies who can join or help your campaign. Then, develop a strategy and tactics, such as petitions, rallies, media, lobbying, or direct action. Lastly, implement and evaluate your campaign with your team and allies. Monitor and evaluate your progress and outcomes, making adjustments as needed.

5 How can you measure your impact as a community organizer?

As a community organizer, you can make a difference in the lives of those you serve by learning, developing, applying, and measuring your skills. Impact can be measured in different ways, depending on your goals and objectives. For example, you can use quantitative indicators such as the number of people you reached or trained, the number of signatures collected, the number of media mentions generated, or the amount of money raised or saved. You can also use qualitative indicators such as changes in attitudes or behaviors of those you worked with, feedback from decision-makers or stakeholders you influenced, or awards or recognition received. Additionally, you can measure your impact through long-term indicators such as policies or laws changed or enacted, institutions or structures transformed or challenged, and movements or networks built or strengthened. With these measurements in place, you can become a more effective and impactful community organizer and inspire others to join in creating positive change.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?