We believe the skills of local residents, the power of local resources, and the supportive functions of local institutions are the primary building blocks of sustainable community development.

Our vision is to see communities discover, cultivate, and celebrate their assets.

To accomplish this we follow these principles: 

• We believe that healthy relationships are central to all successful community development.

• We believe that every community has resources and capacities that can help them move forward. 

• We believe that organization, institution, non-profits and the faith community can contribute to the wellbeing of a community.   

• We believe we should never do "for" others what they can do for themselves.

• Mercy and charity are sometimes necessary for short-term relief during a crisis, but should never result in long-term aid.

• Development and Justice work yields long-term transformative results.

• Power (economic, social, physical, political and spiritual) must be shared for community well-being.

• Linking benevolent people and their  assets collectively creates opportunities for successes.

• Mapping assets helps individuals, communities, congregations, organizations determine how they are uniquely gifted and participate in the transformation process

• Small groups of committed individuals can change their communities and the world.