Community Economic Development in Social Work

Steven D Soifer author Joseph B McNeely author Cathy Costa author Nancy Pickering-Bernheim author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Columbia University Press

Published:28th Nov '14

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Community Economic Development in Social Work cover

Community economic development (CED) is an increasingly essential factor in the revitalization of low- to moderate-income communities. This cutting-edge text explores the intersection of CED and social work practice, which both focus on the well-being of indigent communities and the empowerment of individuals and the communities in which they live. This unique textbook emphasizes a holistic approach to community building that combines business and real-estate development with a focus on stimulating family self-reliance and community empowerment. The result is an innovative approach to rehabilitating communities in decline while preserving resident demographics. The authors delve deep into the social, political, human, and financial capital involved in effecting change and how race and regional issues can complicate approaches and outcomes. Throughout, they integrate case examples to illustrate their strategies and conclude with a consideration of the critical role social workers can play in developing CED's next phase.

We now know that a rising tide does not lift all boats. As inequality has grown, economic development aimed at specific, low income neighborhoods is even more important than when the field first developed in the 1960s. This book provides a very comprehensive introduction to the varieties of economic development strategies, quite specific guidance on how to implement them, and good case studies to see this all in context. Part history, part manual, and part call to action, this book will be useful to all who want to make a difference in America's growing number of poor neighborhoods. -- Wim Wiewel, president, Portland State University A long-overdue book that is realistic and does not minimize the significant challenges facing poor and isolated communities. Yet, at the same time, it is hopeful in capturing the energy, optimism, and successes in community-building initiatives across the United States. -- Margaret S. Sherraden, University of Missouri-St. Louis Soifer, McNeely, Costa, and O'Brien's introduction to Community Economic Development in Social Work is as comprehensive as it is timely. Focusing on the 'role of community' and of 'community organizing,' they build on the untold history of community development and leaven that with a comprehensive and insightful discussion of what community economic development is, how it evolved, and how it works. Community Economic Development in Social Work should be read by anyone interested in confronting the growing economic disparities that plague our society-a set of interrelated issues that must be addressed if our society and economic system are to thrive. The book is one that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of social work and should be read by any agent of social change or advocate of equitable development and a just society. -- Ronald Shiffman, Pratt Graduate Center for Planning and the Environment, Pratt Institute School of Architecture An important book that fills a gap in community development literature, demonstrating the juxtaposition of community development theories and practice in social work. More important, it traces our history in community development from its origins in civil rights, women's rights, labor organizing, and civic boosterism to community building, where we are today. -- Diane Lupke, president, Diane Lupke and Associates

ISBN: 9780231133944

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

584 pages