Community connections: Moving from a culture of caregiving to community building

Abstract

The United States faces a challenge to build on the successes of our predecessors and help every individual thrive in the community. It is a challenge that is fraught with complexities, but programs are being created to address this issue. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the development of a software application, referred to as the Community Connection Manager, for professionals to help match people to community contacts as to develop skills in community integration and employment. CONCLUSION: The Community Connections Manager was created as part of an overall agency redesign to help us prepare to meet the challenges ahead. As we move away from conventional, brick and mortar methods of service provision, we think these community contacts will be the tools we will use to develop and coordinate opportunities for the people we serve. The goal is to help each individual take their chosen place in a community where they are valued for who they are and the contributions they make.