Description
This educational handout helps congregations and community organizations create asset maps by outlining a clear, six-step process for identifying and organizing local strengths. It frames asset mapping as a way to understand resources already present in a community and to use them to meet needs and build partnerships. The guide is rooted in the principle that communities flourish when leaders focus on existing assets rather than deficits; it emphasizes that location, context, and community definition shape what assets matter most.This handout provides ministry leaders with a structured approach to defining their community, forming a framing question, identifying asset categories, and documenting specific resources that can support congregational goals and neighborhood engagement.
Features
- Six-step process for creating an asset map
- Guidance on defining “ community” using geography, groups, and systems
- Instructions for developing a framing question that directs the mapping activity
- Real-life examples
- Templates
Practical Applications
- Learn about and formulate a framing question that directs your mapping effort, such as identifying supports for a specific population or ministry initiative.
- Read and understand this guide and start to document concrete examples as asset resourcesnames, websites, and contacts— to build a practical directory your congregation can use for referrals, partnerships, or outreach.
