Engage the community to solve community issues and problems

Community Development Model

“A participatory approach requires an intentional process that progressively grows young people’s capacity to contribute.” (Youth Development Strategy Aotearoa, p.23).

It has been recognised in government policy that many of the issues that young people face need to be acknowledged and addressed on a community level. The Youth Development Stategy Aotearoa (2002) is a government initiative that has evolved from the recognition for a community approach to youth development.

This means taking collective responsibility rather than individuals struggling in isolation. Research has found that successful approaches to behavioural problems involve wider community participation rather than looking simply at the individuals involved (Rapua Te Huarahi Tika, 2000).