`This volume encompasses a vast range of knowledge on community practice and demonstrates the maturity of this social work domain. It offers a sophisticated treatment of the theoretical underpinnings of community organization as well as the richness of its history. This book will be the major teaching and practice resource for the predictable future and should be consulted by all social workers, not only those who call themselves community organizers as the entire profession seeks to fulfill its historical mission of working for social transformation' -
Charles Garvin, University of Michigan The Handbook of Community Practice is the first volume in this field, encompassing community development, organizing, planning, and social change, and the first community practice text that provides in-depth treatment of globalization - including its impact on communities in the United States and in international development work. The Handbook is grounded in participatory and empowerment practice including social change, social and economic development, feminist practice,community-collaboratives, and engagement in diverse communities. It utilizes the social development perspective and employs analyses of persistent poverty, policy practice, and community research approaches as well as providing strategies for advocacy and social and legislative action.
The Handbook consists of thirty-six chapters, which challenge readers to examine and update assess practice, theory, and research methods. As it expands on models and approaches, delineates emerging issues, and connects policy and practice, the book provides vision and strategies for community practice in the coming decades. The associate editors are eminent scholars in the field, and chapter authors are leaders in their various community practice arenas.
The Handbook stands as the central reference for community practice, and will be useful for years to come as it emphasizes direction for positive change, new developments in community approaches, and focuses attention on globalization, human rights, and social justice. It is also useful to lecturers and students of community practice and provides practitioners with new grounding for planning, development and organizing.
