Community-based Initiatives

Community-based initiatives (CBIs) are a collaborative process in which AMIGOS Volunteers partner with local community groups in the identification, planning and implementation of community service projects. To put it simply, a CBI is the completion of a project by the host community, rather then for the host community by our Volunteers. AMIGOS Volunteers are facilitators and catalysts for positive change. They bring with them valuable training and leadership skills to inspire community leaders.

AMIGOS Volunteers begin CBIs by learning the strengths of their community using Asset-Based Community Development. This method of development theory determines what the community already has rather then what it lacks. Volunteers then use their training to get the youth of the community to “think outside the box” to decide what the community needs and how to best attain it.

For example, the community may need a recycling program or a library. AMIGOS CBIs vary greatly depending on the country and region. Some require more materials then others, so it is necessary that AMIGOS Volunteers ensure the communities raise the funds, gather the materials, and complete their projects before the end of the AMIGOS summer.

Every AMIGOS Volunteer partnership completes a CBI. In summer 2008 alone, more than 300 CBIs were completed. Recent CBIs have included:

• The establishment or renovation of a sports field, playground, bus stop or park
• The establishment or renovation of a community building, school or library
• The establishment of a community garden
• Environmental improvement efforts including trash pick-ups, recycling efforts and reforestation
  
• The creation of murals and the hosting of cultural expositions
  

AMIGOS is part of a coalition of many international development organization who are taking this approach to improving the less developed areas of the world. Others include the Peace Corps and PLAN International. We partner with many international non-governmental organizations (partner agencies) to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of our valuable programs.

*New: Now you have the opportunity to be a part of this amazing process. For information about giving a gift to under-write CBIs, click  here.