Learn more:  Resource Library | Technical Assistance | Helpful Links 

Community development refers to the activities undertaken by organizations, activists, civic leaders, involved citizens and others to improve their communities.  A crucial part of community development is involving community members in the process of recognizing issues that need attention, identifying positive ways to address those issues and working to make those solutions happen.  Another recurring theme is encouraging community members to develop their political power as a way of furthering the improvement of their community. 

Focusing on People, Place, Action

Community development encompasses a wide variety of actions and approaches.  Some community development work focuses on changing individual lives as a path to changing the larger community.  Thus, job training programs, financial literacy or after-school programs for children are part of the world of community development.  Other work seeks to improve community life through capital investments and economic development in a specific neighborhood or area.  Residents may work to build a community center or undertake streetscape improvements, providing physical spaces for improved interaction of community members.  The way land is utilized in communities is an important aspect of community development because it shapes the way residents relate to their physical environment.  Community development can occur block by block or in larger regions and can be big budget projects or smaller programs that focus on individuals. 

The breadth and depth of this work demonstrates that there are many ways to improve the quality of life in our communities.  In Connecticut, community development has many faces and these efforts occur in neighborhoods throughout the state’s cities and towns, striving to create communities that are great places to live, work and visit. 

Quick Links

2-1-1 InfoLine, United way of Connecticut

Community Development Programs, CT Department of Economic and Community Development

Community Development Programs, US Department of Housing and Community Development (HUD) 

Connecticut Community Planning and Development Contacts, HUD

KnowledgePlex

Local Initiative Support Corporation - Connecticut Office

Local Initiative Support Corporation - Hartford Office

Local Initiative Support Corporation - National Office

United Way of Connecticut