BROOKLYN PARK, MN

Asset-Based Community Development

Ellie Kust • EXPL 390

LOCAL RESIDENTS: gifts, capacities, skills
–These individuals have the capacity to introduce
-Students new ideas, because they are forward-thinking and
-Parents educated. Students also have the ability to take
instruction well, which is an asset because they are
-Senior Citizens easily organized towards a common goal.
–Parents have skills in patience and multitasking;
-Artists these skills come from childrearing. They also have
the gift of cooperation, which makes them valuable
assets in a group-based project.
–Senior citizens have the gift of free time during the
day. This makes them an asset due to their flexible
schedules and open availability.
–Artists have creative skills, as well as talent and
passion for their craft. These skills make artists an
asset, because they can approach community
development through a unique artistic lens and
express ideas in their art.
 -Networks
-Vision
ASSOCIATIONS -Dedication
-Shared
knowledge
Associations such as the Community Emergency Assistance Program
(CEAP), places of worship, and the city’s summer camp are an asset to
community development because they have established networks and
a shared vision. These associations are comprised of organized,
dedicated citizens who can mobilize toward a common goal.

INSTITUTIONS
-Hennepin Technical College
-School District #279
-Hennepin County Library
-Community Activity Center
These institutions serve as an asset
in community development because
they can offer resources (both human
and financial), leadership, and a
positive influence on the community.
For example, Hennepin Technical
College, the public school district, and
the public library have funding to
support local causes; the public
library is a free institution that offers
technology and books. The
Community Activity Center also hosts
many events and programs that are
free and open to the public. These
assets can provide support to other
human assets (namely, associations
and local residents) to bring greater
awareness to a cause.
PHYSICAL SPACES
-Trails (run, walk, ski)
-Three Rivers Park District
-Northwoods Park
-Community gardens
-Wheelchair softball field
-Eidem Homestead
-Playgrounds

These physical spaces are an asset to the community because they

provide a place for people to enjoy nature, spend time with family and
friends, and engage in activities. A few specific examples...

● Northwoods Park is a fully accessible public playground for

people of all abilities, expanded upon the existing wheelchair
softball field. This park complex encourages an inclusive,
active community.

● The Eidem Homestead is a historical farm that dates back to

1894. Today, it is a public landmark that hosts tours,
1894 community activities and events, and garden plots for citizens.
INTANGIBLE
ASSETS

Brooklyn Park’s most noteworthy

intangible asset is a diverse population.
Its population is comprised of a variety of
ethnic backgrounds. More than half of the
79,000 residents in Brooklyn Park are
people of color, and 20% of residents are
recent immigrants to the U.S. There is
solidarity in such diversity; it is an asset in
community development because it
encourages cultural exchange and
acceptance. People can share the gifts of
their culture with one another, expanding
the city’s cultural identity to celebrate its
diverse, yet united population.
Chart Source
 **See a detailed action plan
ACTION PLAN: Abstract in the attached document.**

Goal: to improve environmental sustainability

● Start a compost program

● Eliminate waste in public green spaces

Method: Organize a benefit event using local residents’ skills to raise

awareness and funding for this project
WORKS CITED

“Brooklyn Park.” Resilient Communities Project, 2016, rcp.umn.edu/2016-2017-partner-brooklyn-park/.

“People - About Us.” Brooklyn Park, 2017, www.brooklynpark.org/people/.

“Time Capsule - History.” Brooklyn Park, 2017, www.brooklynpark.org/history/.