Advanced Topics in Macro Social Work

This course examines concepts and techniques of neighborhood development for diverse democracy. It analyzes the core concepts of neighborhood as a unit of solution, major models and methods of practice, and practical techniques for involving people in organizations and communities at the neighborhood level. It emphasizes the empowering benefits of neighborhood participation for personal development, organizational capacity-building, and creating community change. It assesses formal efforts by agencies to involve neighborhood residents, indigenous initiatives by neighborhood groups to influence agencies, and the potential of both approaches for community empowerment in areas which are becoming both more segregated and more diverse. Barry Checkoway will be the primary instructor and Tonya Allen, Vice President of the Skillman Foundation will co-facilitate the mini-course.