Community Compass library
Look it up before the meeting
Plain-language explanations and real questions from residents, volunteers, and local officials about zoning, codes, housing, neighborhoods, organizations, and local economies. Laws and programs change and vary by place, so confirm anything time-sensitive with your local office or the current official source.
Community development basicsClear search
Guide · Community development basics
7 Ways That Racial Equity and Community Development Issues Interact
Many people think racial equity and community development are already well linked; this page points out 7 areas where the relationship should be stronger.Guide · Community development basics
Definition of Community Development Can Be Broad
Our definition of community development emphasizes capacity to respond to physical, social, economic, and environmental challenges.Guide · Community development basics
Following Community Development Principles Can Lead to Progress
Explore three key community development principles: creating distinctive places, critical mass in development and programming, and diversified community appeal.Guide · Community development basics
Public Health and Community Development Now Are Converging
Learn why public health and community development are interwoven, and how to make the most of this relationship.Guide · Community development basics
Purpose of Community Development: Some Ideas
What is the purpose of community development, a visitor asked. This is our answer to the why question, explaining the importance and significance of the topic.
Original guidance from A Good Community: How to Make and Keep It, owned and edited by Nancy Thompson (formerly Useful Community Development), shared with permission. Community Compass notes and updates are our own and have not been reviewed by Nancy Thompson.