JULITA J.

RODRIGUEZ, RN, MSN

Community Organizing Participatory Action Research (COPAR)

BY MATT VERA BSN, R.N.

Introduction

COPAR or Community Organizing Participatory Action Research is a vital part of public health nursing.
COPAR aims to transform the apathetic, individualistic and voiceless poor into dynamic, participatory and
politically responsive community.

DEFINITION:

1--COPAR stands for Community Organizing Participatory Action Research

2--A social development approach that aims to transform the apathetic, individualistic and voiceless
poor into dynamic, participatory and politically responsive community.

1. Transforming /Empowering the apathetic community members:

• Explanation: -- Apathy refers to a lack of interest, engagement, or concern about social

and political issues.

• COPAR organizers facilitate community meetings, workshops, and forums to raise

awareness about their rights, interests, and potential for collective action.

2. Transforming the individualistic community members:

• Explanation: Individualism refers to a mindset that prioritizes personal interests and

pursuits over the collective well-being of the community.

• Example, COPAR organizers facilitate the formation of cooperatives or farmer groups.

3. Empowering the voiceless:

• Explanation: Voicelessness refers to the lack of opportunities for marginalized

individuals or groups to express their concerns, needs, and aspirations in decision-
making processes that affect their lives.

• COPAR organizer empowers them to articulate their demands, hold authorities

accountable, and advocate for systemic change.

3--A collective, participatory, transformative, liberative, sustained and systematic process of building
people’s organizations by mobilizing and enhancing the capabilities and resources of the people for the
resolution of their issues and concerns towards effecting change in their existing oppressive and
exploitative conditions (1994 National Rural Conference).

1. Collective and participatory process:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: COPAR emphasizes the active involvement and collaboration of community
members in decision-making, problem-solving, and action planning processes.

2. Transformative and liberative:

• Explanation: COPAR aims to bring about fundamental and positive changes in the lives of
marginalized communities, challenging existing structures of oppression and
exploitation.

• Oppression refers to the systematic and pervasive mistreatment, marginalization, or

discrimination experienced by certain groups based on their identity, characteristics, or
social status.

• Examples of oppression include racial segregation, gender discrimination, economic

exploitation, police brutality, mass incarceration, cultural imperialism, and systemic
barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and housing faced by marginalized
communities.

• Exploitation refers to the unfair or unjust use of someone's labor, resources, or

vulnerabilities for the benefit of others, often resulting in harm, inequality, or
deprivation for the exploited individuals or groups.

• Example: exploitation may involve low wages, unsafe working conditions, child labor,
forced labor, human trafficking, and debt bondage, particularly prevalent in industries
such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and domestic work.

3. Sustained and systematic process:

• Explanation: COPAR is not a one-time intervention but a long-term and systematic

process of capacity-building, organizing, and mobilization

• Example: COPAR facilitates the establishment of a community-based disaster

preparedness committee. Over time, this committee receives training in disaster risk
reduction, develops evacuation plans, and conducts regular drills to build resilience.

• Here's a more detailed breakdown of what resilience means:

• Adaptability: Resilience involves being flexible and adaptable in response to changing

circumstances or unexpected events.

• Emotional Regulation: Resilience entails managing and regulating emotions in

constructive ways, such as staying calm under pressure

• Problem-Solving Skills: Resilience involves having strong problem-solving skills and a

proactive approach to addressing difficulties.

• Social Support: Resilience is fostered by having supportive relationships and a reliable

network of family, friends, and community members who offer encouragement,
assistance, and empathy during tough times.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Self-Efficacy: Resilience is fueled by a belief in one's ability to effectively cope with
adversity and achieve desired outcomes

• Optimism and Hope: Resilience is bolstered by a positive outlook and a hopeful attitude
towards the future. It involves cultivating optimism, gratitude, and a belief that things
can improve, even in the darkest of times

• Coping Strategies: Resilience encompasses the use of adaptive coping strategies to

manage stress and build psychological strength.

4--A process by which a community identifies its needs and objectives, develops confidence to take
action in respect to them and in doing so, extends and develops cooperative and collaborative attitudes
and practices in the community (Ross 1967).

1. Identifying needs and objectives:

• Explanation: COPAR begins with a participatory process of identifying the needs,

priorities, and aspirations of the community. This involves engaging community
members in discussions, surveys, and assessments to understand their challenges and
goals.

2. Developing confidence to take action:

• Explanation: COPAR aims to build the confidence and self-efficacy of community

members to take action on the issues they have identified

3. Extending and developing cooperative attitudes and practices:

• Explanation: COPAR fosters a culture of cooperation, collaboration, and mutual support

within the community. It encourages individuals and groups to work together towards
common goals, share resources, and build networks of solidarity.

5—COAR A continuous and sustained process of educating the people to understand and develop their
critical awareness of their existing condition, working with the people collectively and efficiently on their
immediate and long-term problems, and mobilizing the people to develop their capability and readiness
to respond and take action on their immediate needs towards solving their long-term problems (CO: A
manual of experience, PCPD).

The definition of COAR (Community Organizing and Action Research) provided by the manual of
experience from PCPD emphasizes its role as a continuous and empowering process for community
development. Let's break down the explanation and provide examples:

1. Educating the people to understand and develop critical awareness:

• Explanation: COAR begins with the education and empowerment of community

members to critically analyze their existing conditions, challenges, and opportunities

2. Working with the people collectively and efficiently on immediate and long-term problems:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: COPAR involves collaborative efforts to address both immediate needs and
underlying systemic issues. It emphasizes the importance of collective action and
efficient problem-solving processes that prioritize community participation and
ownership.

3. Mobilizing the people to develop capability and readiness to respond and take action:

• Explanation: COPAR aims to empower communities to become agents of change by

building their capacity, confidence, and readiness to take proactive steps in addressing
their immediate needs and long-term challenges.

Process of COPAR

The sequence of steps whereby members of a community come together to critically assess to evaluate
community conditions and work together to improve those conditions.

Process of COPAR:

• Explanation: COPAR, or Community Organizing and Participatory Action Research, is a structured

approach that involves a sequence of steps where community members collaborate to assess,
evaluate, and address community conditions collectively. It emphasizes active participation,
critical reflection, and collaborative problem-solving.

Structure

Refers to a particular group of community members that work together for a common health and health
related goals.

• Explanation: Structure refers to a specific group or organization within the community

that is formed to address common goals or objectives related to health and health-
related issues. It provides a framework for collective action, coordination, and decision-
making.

Emphasis

1. Community working to solve its own problem:

• Explanation: This emphasizes the principle that communities are best positioned to
identify and address their own challenges. Rather than relying on external entities to
solve their problems, communities are empowered to take ownership and initiative in
finding solutions.

2. Direction is established internally and externally:

• Explanation: This recognizes that while communities set their own priorities and
agendas, they may also seek guidance, resources, and support from external sources

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 such as government agencies, NGOs, or experts. It involves a balance between internal
decision-making processes and external input or assistance.

3. Development and implementation of a specific project less important than the development
of the capacity of the community to establish the project:

• Explanation: This underscores the importance of building the capacity, skills, and
resources within the community to initiate and sustain projects in the long term.

4. Consciousness raising involves perceiving health and medical care within the total structure of
society:

• Explanation: This highlights the importance of understanding health and medical care
within the broader social, economic, and political context. It involves raising awareness
among community members about the interconnectedness of health with various social
determinants and structural factors.

Importance

-- COPAR is an important tool for community development and people empowerment as this helps the
community workers to generate community participation in development activities.

COPAR prepares people/clients to eventually take over the management of a development programs in
the future.

COPAR maximizes community participation and involvement; community resources are mobilized for
community services.

The importance of COPAR (Community Organizing and Participatory Action Research) lies in its ability to
empower communities, foster participation, and mobilize resources for sustainable development

1. Generating community participation in development activities:

• Explanation: COPAR encourages active involvement and engagement of community

members in identifying, planning, and implementing development initiatives. By
fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration, it ensures that development efforts
are relevant, inclusive, and responsive to community needs and aspirations.

2. Preparing people/clients to eventually take over the management of development programs

in the future:

• Explanation: COPAR not only addresses immediate development needs but also builds
the capacity and leadership skills of community members to sustain and manage
programs independently. It empowers individuals to become agents of change and take
ownership of their community's development trajectory.

• Over time, they gradually assume leadership roles in running the program, ensuring its
continuity and effectiveness.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 3. Maximizing community participation and involvement; mobilizing community resources for
community services:

• Explanation: COPAR leverages the collective knowledge, skills, and resources within the
community to address development challenges. It fosters a culture of mutual support,
cooperation, and resource-sharing, enabling communities to pool their strengths and
assets for the common good.

Principles

1. People especially the most oppressed, exploited and deprived sectors are open to change,
have the capacity to change and are able to bring about change.

2. COPAR should be based on the interest of the poorest sector of the community.

3. COPAR should lead to a self-reliant community and society.

1. People especially the most oppressed, exploited, and deprived sectors are open to change,
have the capacity to change, and are able to bring about change:

• Explanation: This principle recognizes the agency and resilience of marginalized

communities. It affirms that despite facing systemic oppression and exploitation,
community members have the inherent capacity to envision and enact positive change
in their lives and communities.

2. COPAR should be based on the interest of the poorest sector of the community:

• Explanation: This principle prioritizes the needs and interests of the most vulnerable and
marginalized members of the community. It ensures that development efforts are
inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the realities and priorities of those who are most
affected by poverty and injustice.

3. COPAR should lead to a self-reliant community and society:

• Explanation: This principle emphasizes the importance of building the capacity and
resilience of communities to address their own needs and challenges independently. It
aims to empower communities to become self-reliant, self-sufficient, and capable of
shaping their own development trajectories.

• Over time, the community becomes less reliant on external aid and more capable of
managing and adapting to environmental threats, leading to greater self-reliance and
sustainability.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
Critical Steps

Each of these critical steps in COPAR (Community Organizing and Participatory Action Research) is
essential for empowering communities, fostering participation, and achieving sustainable development.
Let's explore each step along with an example:

1. Integration:

• Explanation: Integration involves bringing together various stakeholders, resources, and

perspectives to address community issues comprehensively. It ensures that diverse
voices and interests are considered in the decision-making process.

2. Social Investigation:

• Explanation: Social investigation involves gathering data, conducting surveys, and

analyzing community conditions to understand root causes of problems and identify
opportunities for intervention.

3. Tentative Program Planning:

• Explanation: Tentative program planning involves developing initial strategies, goals, and
activities based on the findings of social investigation and input from community
members.

4. Groundwork:

• Explanation: Groundwork involves laying the foundation for community mobilization and
action, including building relationships, establishing trust, and creating awareness about
the program goals.

5. Meeting:

• Explanation: Meetings provide opportunities for community members to come together,

share information, discuss issues, and make decisions collectively.

6. Role Play:

• Explanation: Role play activities allow participants to simulate real-life scenarios, explore
different perspectives, and practice new skills in a safe and interactive environment.

7. Mobilization or Action:

• Explanation: Mobilization or action involves implementing planned activities, engaging

community members in collective action, and advocating for change.

8. Evaluation:

• Explanation: Evaluation involves assessing the impact, effectiveness, and sustainability of

program activities, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, and adjusting
strategies accordingly.

9. Reflection:

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Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: Reflection provides opportunities for participants and organizers to pause,
review experiences, share insights, and learn from successes and challenges.

10. Organization:

• Explanation: Organization involves formalizing structures, roles, and responsibilities within the
community to sustain initiatives and empower ongoing participation.

Phases of COPAR

COPAR has four phases namely:

1.Pre-Entry Phase,

2. Entry Phase,

3.Organization-building phase, and

4. Sustenance and strengthening phase.

1. Pre-Entry Phase

Is the initial phase of the organizing process where the community organizer looks for communities to
serve and help.

Activities include:

Preparation of the Institution in pre-entry phase in the community

1. Train faculty and students in COPAR:

• Explanation: This involves providing training sessions or workshops to educate faculty

members and students about the principles, methodologies, and techniques of COPAR
(Community Organizing and Participatory Action Research). It aims to equip them with
the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage with communities.

2. Formulate plans for institutionalizing COPAR:

• Explanation: This step involves developing strategies and policies within the institution
to integrate COPAR principles and practices into its academic programs, research
initiatives, and community engagement efforts on a long-term basis.

3. Revise/enrich curriculum and immersion program:

• Explanation: This involves reviewing and updating the institution's curriculum and
immersion programs to incorporate COPAR principles, methodologies, and real-world
applications. It aims to provide students with experiential learning opportunities and
practical skills for community engagement.

4. Coordinate participants of other departments:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: This involves collaborating with departments across the institution to
mobilize resources, expertise, and support for COPAR initiatives. It aims to foster
interdisciplinary collaboration and maximize the institution's impact in addressing
community needs.

Site Selection

1. Initial networking with local government:

• Explanation: This step involves reaching out to local government officials or authorities
to establish communication, gather information about potential communities, and seek
support or guidance for the project.

2. Conduct preliminary special investigation:

• Explanation: This step involves conducting an initial assessment or investigation to

gather baseline data, identify key issues, and assess the feasibility of implementing the
project in different communities.

3. Make long/short list of potential communities:

• Explanation: Based on the findings of the preliminary investigation and consultation with
stakeholders, a list of potential communities is compiled. This list may include
communities that demonstrate the greatest need, readiness, and potential for successful
project implementation.

4. Do ocular survey of listed communities:

• Explanation: An ocular survey involves visiting potential communities in person to assess

their suitability for the project, gather additional information, and engage with
community members.

Criteria for Initial Site Selection:

The criteria for initial site selection outline specific characteristics that are important for identifying
suitable communities for a development project. Let's explore each criterion along with an example:

1. Must have a population of 100-200 families:

• Explanation: This criterion ensures that the selected community has a sufficient size to
support the project's objectives and engage a meaningful number of participants. It also
indicates a level of community cohesion and potential for collective action.

• Rationale: A community of this size allows for meaningful engagement with residents
while ensuring that resources are effectively utilized

2. Economically depressed. No strong resistance from the community:

• Explanation: This criterion focuses on targeting communities facing economic

challenges, where the project's interventions are likely to have a significant impact.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 Additionally, it ensures that there is no strong opposition or resistance from community
members towards the proposed project.

• Rationale: Selecting an economically depressed community ensures that the project

targets populations most in need of assistance and support.

• However, it's crucial to avoid communities with strong resistance as it can hinder
progress and sustainability.

3. No serious peace and order problem:

• Explanation: This criterion prioritizes safety and security in the selected community,
ensuring that project activities can be implemented without disruption or endangering
the well-being of participants and project staff.

• Rationale: Peace and order are essential for the success of community engagement
initiatives. By selecting communities with relatively peaceful conditions, the project can
focus on its objectives without being impeded by security concerns or disruptions.

4. No similar group or organization holding the same program:

• Explanation: This criterion avoids duplication of efforts and ensures that the selected
community can fully benefit from the project's interventions without competing with
similar programs or initiatives.

• Rationale: By selecting communities without similar ongoing programs, the project can
fill existing gaps in services or address unmet needs more effectively.

Identifying Potential Municipalities:

1. Make a long/short list of potential municipalities:

Identifying potential municipalities involves creating a list of locations that could serve as suitable sites
for implementing a development project. Let's delve into the explanation, examples, and rationale for
this step:

2. Make a long/short list of potential municipalities:

Explanation: This step involves conducting research, gathering data, and analyzing various factors to
identify municipalities that align with the project's objectives and criteria. It may include considering
demographic information, socio-economic indicators, infrastructure availability, geographic location, and
community readiness.

Rationale: Making a long/short list of potential municipalities allows project planners to systematically
evaluate and prioritize locations that offer the greatest potential for impact and success. It helps focus
resources and efforts on municipalities that have the necessary infrastructure, community support, and
conducive environments for project implementation.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
Identifying Potential Communities:

1. Do the same process as in selecting municipality:

Explanation: This step entails replicating the process used for selecting municipalities but at a smaller
scale, focusing specifically on identifying communities within the chosen municipalities that align with
the project's objectives and criteria.

2. Consult key informants and residents:

Explanation: This step involves engaging with key informants and community members to gather
insights, local knowledge, and perspectives on potential communities. Key informants may include
community leaders, local activists, healthcare providers, educators, and other stakeholders who have in-
depth knowledge of the community..

Rationale: Consulting key informants and residents provides valuable firsthand insights into the socio-
economic, cultural, and environmental context of potential communities

3. Coordinate with local government and NGOs for future activities:

Explanation: This step involves establishing partnerships and collaboration with local government
agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other relevant stakeholders to support and

Rationale: Coordinating with local government and NGOs is essential for leveraging existing resources,
expertise, and infrastructure to maximize the impact and sustainability of project activities

Government Agencies:

1. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD): DSWD is responsible for social
welfare programs and services aimed at improving the well-being of disadvantaged individuals
and communities.

2. Department of Agriculture (DA): DA focuses on agricultural development and rural livelihood

programs.

3. Department of Education (DepEd): DepEd plays a crucial role in education and may collaborate
on projects related to school-based initiatives, youth development, and adult education
programs within communities.

4. Local Government Units (LGUs): Municipal or barangay-level government units are instrumental
in community development efforts. They provide essential services, infrastructure, and
governance at the grassroots level. Collaboration with LGUs ensures local ownership and
sustainability of projects.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):

1. Save the Children: Save the Children is an international NGO dedicated to promoting children's
rights, providing education, healthcare, and protection to vulnerable children and their families.
They often work in partnership with communities to implement programs focused on child
welfare, education, and health.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 2. World Vision: World Vision is a global humanitarian organization that works to address poverty
and injustice, particularly focusing on child well-being. They engage in community development
projects such as livelihood support, education programs, health initiatives, and disaster
response.

3. Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity is an NGO focused on housing and shelter needs.
They collaborate with communities to build safe and affordable housing, improve shelter
conditions, and provide housing-related services such as infrastructure development and
disaster resilience training.

4. Oxfam: Oxfam is an international confederation of NGOs working to alleviate poverty and

inequality worldwide. They implement programs in various sectors including livelihoods, gender
equality, water, sanitation, and humanitarian assistance, often in partnership with local
communities and organizations.

LOCAL NGOs

Certainly, engaging with local NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) is often crucial for community
development initiatives as they have a deep understanding of local contexts, cultures, and needs. Here
are examples of local NGOs that could be involved in community development projects:

1. Community-Based Organizations (CBOs): These are grassroots-level organizations formed by

community members to address specific local issues. Examples include women's groups, youth
clubs, and farmer cooperatives. CBOs play a vital role in mobilizing community resources,
advocating for local needs, and implementing development projects tailored to the community's
priorities.

2. Environmental Conservation Groups: Local NGOs focused on environmental conservation and

sustainability can be valuable partners in community development efforts. They may engage in
initiatives such as reforestation, waste management, and eco-tourism development to promote
environmental stewardship and enhance livelihood opportunities.

3. Health and Wellness Organizations: NGOs dedicated to improving healthcare access, promoting
public health, and addressing specific health issues within communities can contribute to
community development. They may conduct health education campaigns, provide medical
services, and advocate for policies that support community well-being.

4. Educational NGOs: Local NGOs focused on education and youth development can collaborate on
projects aimed at improving educational outcomes, enhancing school facilities, and providing
extracurricular activities for children and youth. They may also offer scholarships, mentorship
programs, and vocational training to empower individuals and strengthen the local workforce.

5. Microfinance Institutions (MFIs): MFIs provide financial services such as microloans, savings
accounts, and business training to low-income individuals and small businesses. Partnering with
local MFIs can help promote entrepreneurship, create livelihood opportunities, and alleviate
poverty within communities by facilitating access to capital and financial resources.

6. Arts and Culture Organizations: NGOs dedicated to preserving and promoting local arts, culture,
and heritage play a vital role in community development by fostering cultural identity, social
Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 cohesion, and economic opportunities. They may organize cultural events, heritage conservation
projects, and arts education programs to enrich community life and stimulate creative
expression.

7. Human Rights and Advocacy Groups: Local NGOs focused on human rights, social justice, and
advocacy can be important allies in community development initiatives, particularly in
marginalized or vulnerable communities. They may work to empower marginalized groups,
promote inclusive governance, and address issues such as gender equality, land rights, and
indigenous rights.

CHOOSING THE FINAL COMMUNITY

Choosing the final community for a development program involves several steps:

1. Conduct informal interviews with community residents and key informants:

• Example: Sit down with community members, local leaders, and key stakeholders for
casual conversations to gather insights into the community's strengths, challenges, and
aspirations. Ask open-ended questions about their experiences, priorities, and needs.

• Rationale: Informal interviews provide valuable qualitative data and help build rapport
with community members, allowing for a deeper understanding of their perspectives
and concerns.

2. Determine the need of the program in the community:

• Example: Conduct a needs assessment through discussions, observations, and data

analysis to identify specific gaps, issues, or opportunities within the community.

• Rationale: Understanding the community's needs ensures that the program addresses
real challenges and makes a meaningful impact

3. Take note of political development:

• Rationale: Political stability and community dynamics can influence the success and
sustainability of development programs.

4. Develop community profiles for secondary data:

• Rationale: Community profiles provide a comprehensive overview of the target area,

aiding in program planning, resource allocation, and monitoring. They serve as reference
documents for understanding the context and dynamics of the community.

5. Develop survey tools:

• Example: Design survey questionnaires or assessment tools to collect quantitative data

on specific topics or indicators relevant to the program's objectives. Ensure that the
questions are clear, concise, and culturally sensitive, and pilot test the survey tools to
refine them as needed.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Rationale: Surveys help gather systematic data on community needs, preferences, and
perceptions, complementing qualitative insights from informal interviews.

6. Pay courtesy call to community leaders:

• Example: Arrange meetings with local government officials, traditional leaders, and
influential community members to introduce the program, discuss potential
collaboration, and seek their input and support. Express respect for their authority and
willingness to work in partnership.

7. Choose foster families based on guidelines:

• Rationale: Foster families play a crucial role in hosting program participants, providing
accommodation, support, and cultural immersion experiences. Selecting appropriate
foster families ensures the safety, well-being, and positive experience of program
participants during their stay in the community.

IDENTIFYING HOST FAMILIES

Identifying suitable host families for community programs involves considering various factors to ensure
a positive experience for both the participants and the host family. Below are examples for each
criterion:

1. House is strategically located in the community:

• Example: The house of the potential host family is centrally located within the
community, easily accessible to participants and other community members. It may be
situated near key community facilities such as schools, health centers, or gathering
places..

2. Should not belong to the rich segment:

• Rationale: Selecting a host family from a similar socio-economic background helps foster
a sense of relatability and cultural understanding between the participants and the host
family, reducing potential barriers and enhancing the immersion experience.

3. Respected by both formal and informal leaders:

• Rationale: A respected host family serves as a role model and ambassador for the
community program, enhancing its credibility and acceptance among community
members. Their endorsement can also facilitate collaboration with local leaders and
stakeholders.

4. Neighbors are not hesitant to enter the house:

• Rationale: A hospitable and open environment encourages participation and

engagement from both program participants and community members, fostering a
sense of belonging and trust within the community.

5. No member of the host family should be moving out in the community:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Rationale: Ensuring the stability and continuity of the host family's presence in the
community minimizes disruptions and uncertainties for the program participants. It also
allows for sustained interaction and support from the host family throughout the
program duration.

Choosing Final Community

Choosing the final community involves a series of steps to carefully assess and select the most suitable
location for implementing a development program. Let's explore each step along with examples and
rationale:

1. Conduct informal interviews with community residents and key informants:

• Explanation: Informal interviews provide an opportunity to engage directly with

community members and gather insights into their needs, concerns, and priorities. Key
informants, such as community leaders or elders, can offer valuable perspectives and
facilitate access to local knowledge.

2. Determine the need of the program in the community:

• Explanation: Assessing the specific needs of the community is crucial for ensuring that
the program addresses relevant challenges and contributes to meaningful impact. This
step involves analyzing data, conducting needs assessments, and consulting with
stakeholders.

3. Take note of political development:

• Explanation: Political dynamics within a community can influence the success and
sustainability of development initiatives. Understanding local governance structures,
power dynamics, and community leadership is essential for effective program
implementation.

4. Develop community profiles for secondary data:

• Explanation: Creating community profiles involves compiling secondary data and

information from existing sources such as census reports, government records, and
academic studies. These profiles provide a comprehensive overview of the community's
demographics, socio-economic status, infrastructure, and development indicators.

5. Develop survey tools:

• Explanation: Developing survey tools allows for systematic data collection and
measurement of key indicators related to the program's objectives. Surveys can help
quantify community needs, preferences, and perceptions, providing valuable insights for
program design and evaluation.

6. Pay courtesy call to community leaders:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: Building relationships and rapport with community leaders is essential for
gaining trust, securing cooperation, and fostering local ownership of the program.
Paying a courtesy call demonstrates respect and appreciation for community leaders'
roles and insights.

7. Choose foster families based on guidelines:

• Explanation: Foster families play a crucial role in supporting program participants,

facilitating community engagement, and promoting program sustainability. Selecting
foster families based on established guidelines ensures that they meet specific criteria
and can fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Identifying Host Family

Identifying a suitable host family is crucial for community-based programs as they play a central role in
facilitating engagement, trust-building, and collaboration with community members. Let's explore each
criterion along with examples and rationale:

1. House is strategically located in the community:

• Explanation: The host family's residence should be centrally located within the
community to ensure accessibility and visibility. This enables easy interaction with
community members and participation in program activities.

2. Should not belong to the rich segment:

• Explanation: It is important for the host family to have a socio-economic status that is
representative of the broader community to foster relatability and trust among
community members. Selecting a family from the lower or middle-income segment
helps avoid perceptions of privilege or elitism.

• Example: the host family is chosen from a middle-income household.

3. Respected by both formal and informal leaders:

• Explanation: The host family should command respect and influence within the
community, both formally and informally, to garner trust and support from various
segments of the population. Their credibility and reputation contribute to the credibility
and acceptance of the program.

4. Neighbors are not hesitant to enter the house:

• Explanation: The host family's residence should be perceived as welcoming and

approachable by neighbors, fostering an open-door policy that encourages community
members to engage freely and participate in program activities without hesitation.

• Example: the host family's home is known for its warm hospitality and open
atmosphere. Neighbors feel comfortable visiting the family for social gatherings,
informal discussions, or seeking assistance, creating a sense of community cohesion and
inclusivity.

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 5. No member of the host family should be moving out in the community:

• Explanation: It is preferable for the host family members to have deep roots and stable
ties to the community, without plans for relocation or significant absences, ensuring
continuity and commitment to their role in supporting the program.

2. Entry Phase

--sometimes called the social preparation phase. Is crucial in determining which strategies for
organizing would suit the chosen community. Success of the activities depend on how much the
community organizers has integrated with the community.

The Entry Phase, also known as the social preparation phase, is a critical stage in community organizing
where organizers establish rapport, build trust, and familiarize themselves with the chosen community.
This phase is essential for determining the most effective strategies for community engagement and
ensuring the success of subsequent activities.

Explanation:

• The Entry Phase involves the initial interactions between community organizers and
members of the chosen community. It focuses on laying the groundwork for effective
engagement by understanding community dynamics, needs, and priorities. During this
phase, organizers establish relationships, assess readiness for change, and gather
information to inform the development of tailored strategies for community organizing.

Guidelines for Entry

The guidelines for entry provide a framework for community organizers to effectively integrate into the
chosen community during the Entry Phase.

1. Recognize the role of local authorities by paying them visits to inform them of their presence
and activities:

• Explanation: This guideline emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and respecting

the authority and leadership structures within the community. Organizers should seek to
establish communication and collaboration with local authorities, such as village chiefs,
council members, or religious leaders, to gain their support and endorsement for their
activities.

2. Her appearance, speech, behavior, and lifestyle should be in keeping with those of the
community residents without disregard for their being role models:

• Example: A community organizer working in an urban neighborhood dress modestly and

respectfully, in line with local norms and customs. She uses language and
communication styles that are familiar and relatable to community residents, avoiding
jargon or expressions that may be unfamiliar or off-putting. Through her actions and

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 behavior, she models humility, empathy, and inclusivity, earning the respect and trust of
community members.

3. Avoid raising the consciousness of community residents; adopt a low-key profile:

• Explanation: This guideline advises organizers to adopt a non-intrusive and understated

approach during the initial stages of engagement with the community. Organizers should
prioritize building relationships, listening, and observing, rather than imposing their
agendas or attempting to catalyze change prematurely.

Activities in the Entry Phase

Activities in the Entry Phase are essential for community organizers to immerse themselves in the
community, build trust, and gain a deeper understanding of local dynamics. Let's discuss each activity
along with examples and rationale:

1. Integration: Establishing rapport with the people in a continuing effort to imbibe community
life:

• Explanation: Integration involves actively engaging with community members,

participating in community events, and building relationships to become a trusted and
respected member of the community.

• Example: A community organizer joins local festivals, religious ceremonies, and social
gatherings to interact with residents, learn about their customs, and share experiences.

2. Living with the community:

• Explanation: Living within the community allows organizers to experience daily life
firsthand, deepen relationships with residents, and gain insights into their needs,
challenges, and aspirations.

3. Seeking out to converse with people where they usually congregate:

• Explanation: Actively seeking opportunities to converse with community members in

their natural settings, such as markets, community centers, or places of worship,
facilitates informal interactions and builds rapport.

4. Lending a hand in household chores:

• Explanation: Assisting with household chores demonstrates solidarity with community

members, fosters mutual respect, and strengthens interpersonal connections.

• Example: A volunteer participating in a community development project helps elderly

residents with tasks such as fetching water, cooking meals, or tending to livestock. By
offering practical support, the volunteer builds trust and rapport, paving the way for
deeper engagement and collaboration on community initiatives.

5. Avoiding gambling and drinking:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: Maintaining a lifestyle consistent with community norms and values,
including abstaining from activities such as gambling and excessive drinking, reinforces
credibility and respect among community members.

6. Deepening social investigation/community study:

• Explanation: Conducting in-depth social investigations and community studies enables

organizers to gather comprehensive data, identify key issues, and inform program
planning and implementation. By collecting qualitative and quantitative data, they gain
insights into community needs, assets, and priorities, shaping the design of targeted
interventions.

7. Verification and enrichment of data collected from initial survey:

• Explanation: Validating and augmenting data collected from initial surveys through
further investigation and consultation ensures accuracy and reliability for informed
decision-making.

8. Conducting a baseline survey by students, with results relayed through a community

assembly:

• Explanation: Engaging students in conducting baseline surveys empowers them to

actively participate in community development efforts while providing valuable data for
program evaluation and monitoring. Sharing survey results through community
assemblies promotes transparency, accountability, and community ownership of
initiatives.

Core Group Formation

Core group formation is a crucial step in community organizing, as it involves identifying influential
individuals who can serve as leaders, connectors, and advocates for community development initiatives.

1. Leader spotting through sociogram:

• Explanation: A sociogram is a visual representation of social relationships within a

community, depicting connections and interactions between individuals. Leader spotting
involves identifying individuals who occupy central positions in the sociogram, indicating
influence, respect, and prominence within the community.

2. Key Persons. Approached by most people:

• Explanation: Key persons are individuals who are frequently approached by others in the
community for information, support, or assistance. They serve as important connectors
and mediators, facilitating communication and collaboration among community
members.

3. Opinion Leader. Approached by key persons:

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Explanation: Opinion leaders are individuals who wield influence and credibility within
the community, shaping attitudes, opinions, and behaviors of others. They are often
respected and admired by key persons and hold sway over community decision-
making processes.

• Example: A respected elder in a tribal community is regarded as an opinion leader, as his

wisdom, experience, and moral authority command respect and admiration from others.

4. Isolates. Never or hardly consulted:

• Explanation: Isolates are individuals who are marginalized or disconnected from social
networks within the community, often lacking influence, support, or recognition. They
may be overlooked or excluded from community decision-making processes.

• Example: A newcomer to a neighborhood who keeps to herself and rarely interacts with
neighbors may be considered an isolate.

3. Organization-Building Phase

Entails the formation of more formal structure and the inclusion of more formal procedure of planning,
implementing, and evaluating community-wise activities. It is at this phase where the organized leaders
or groups are being given training (formal, informal, OJT) to develop their style in managing their own
concerns/programs.

Key Activities

Community Health Organization (CHO)

preparation of legal requirements

guidelines in the organization of the CHO by the core group

election of officers

Research Team Committee

Planning Committee

Health Committee Organization

Others

Formation of by-laws by the CHO

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
Key Activities in the Organization-building Phase are instrumental in establishing formal structures,
procedures, and capacities within the community.

1.Community Health Organization (CHO):

• Explanation: Establishing a CHO involves forming a dedicated group focused on

promoting health and well-being within the community. This organization may engage in
activities such as health education, disease prevention, and advocacy for improved
healthcare services.

• Rationale: By forming a CHO, the community can take ownership of health-related

initiatives, prioritize local health needs, and mobilize resources to address health
disparities. This organized approach enhances community engagement, empowers
individuals to take control of their health, and fosters a culture of collective
responsibility for well-being.

2. Preparation of Legal Requirements:

• Explanation: This involves fulfilling legal obligations such as registering the organization,
obtaining permits, and complying with relevant regulations to ensure legitimacy and
accountability.

• Rationale: Meeting legal requirements enhances the credibility and legitimacy of the
organization, instills trust among stakeholders, and ensures adherence to legal standards
and regulations.

3. Guidelines in the organization of the CHO by the core group:

• Explanation: The core group, comprising community leaders and representatives,

develops guidelines and operational procedures to govern the functioning of the CHO,
including decision-making processes, membership criteria, and roles and responsibilities.

• Rationale: Developing guidelines promotes clarity, consistency, and coherence in the

organization's operations, facilitating effective decision-making, communication, and
coordination among members

4. Election of Officers:

• Explanation: The election of officers involves selecting individuals to hold leadership

positions within the organization, such as president, vice president, secretary, treasurer,
and committee chairs, through a democratic voting process.

• Rationale: Electing officers promotes inclusivity, representation, and democratic

decision-making within the organization. It enables members to have a voice in selecting
leaders who will advocate for their needs.

5. Research Team Committee:

• Explanation: The Research Team Committee is tasked with conducting studies, needs
assessments, and evaluations to inform evidence-based decision-making and program
planning within the community.
Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Rationale: Establishing a Research Team Committee enhances the organization's
capacity for data-driven decision-making, program evaluation, and evidence-based
practice.

6. Planning Committee:

• Explanation: The Planning Committee is responsible for developing strategic plans,

action plans, and project proposals to guide the organization's activities and initiatives.

• Rationale: Establishing a Planning Committee fosters systematic, participatory, and goal-

oriented planning processes within the organization. It enables stakeholders to align
resources, set objectives, and monitor progress towards achieving desired outcomes.

7. Health Committee Organization:

• Explanation: The Health Committee Organization focuses on coordinating health-related

activities, mobilizing resources, and advocating for improved health services and
infrastructure within the community.

• Rationale: Establishing a Health Committee Organization strengthens the community's

capacity for health promotion, disease prevention, and health system strengthening.

8.Formation of By-laws by the CHO:

Explanation:

• By-laws are rules and regulations established by an organization to govern its internal
operations, decision-making processes, and conduct of members.

• By-laws provide clear guidelines and rules that govern the operations and conduct of the
CHO.

• By-laws ensure that the CHO operates in accordance with relevant legal requirements
and regulations.

• By-laws outline the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of CHO members, including
criteria for membership, voting rights, and participation in decision-making processes

• By-laws establish procedures for financial management, budgeting, and fiscal

accountability within the CHO

• By-laws include provisions for resolving conflicts, disputes, or disagreements that may
arise within the organization

4. Sustenance and Strengthening Phase

Occurs when the community organization has already been established and the community members
are already actively participating in community-wide undertakings. At this point, the different
committee’s setup in the organization-building phase is already expected to be functioning by way of

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
planning, implementing and evaluating their own programs, with the overall guidance from the
community-wide organization.

Key Activities

Key Activities in community health programs are crucial for ensuring the successful implementation,
monitoring, and sustainability of initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes within a community.

1. Training of CHO for monitoring and implementing community health programs:

• Explanation: This activity involves providing comprehensive training to members of the

Community Health Organization (CHO) on various aspects of program implementation,
monitoring, and evaluation related to community health initiatives. Training sessions
may cover topics such as disease prevention, health promotion, sanitation practices, first
aid, and community mobilization techniques.

• Rationale: Training of CHO members is essential for building their capacity to address
health challenges, deliver health services, and engage community members in health
promotion activities.

2. Identification of secondary leaders:

• Explanation: Secondary leaders are individuals within the community who exhibit
leadership potential and can support the efforts of the primary leadership team, such as
the CHO, in implementing health programs and initiatives. Identifying secondary leaders
ensures broader participation, representation, and support for community health
activities.

• Rationale: Engaging secondary leaders expands the reach and impact of community
health initiatives, as they can mobilize their respective networks, facilitate
communication, and advocate for health promotion within their spheres of influence.

3. Linkaging and networking:

• Explanation: Linkaging and networking involve establishing partnerships, collaborations,

and alliances with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, non-
governmental organizations (NGOs), healthcare providers, academic institutions, and
community-based organizations, to leverage resources, expertise, and support for
community health programs.

• Rationale: Linkaging and networking enhance the CHO's capacity to address complex
health challenges by tapping into external resources, expertise, and networks.

4. Conduct of mobilization on health and development concerns:

• Explanation: Mobilization involves raising awareness, mobilizing community members,

and rallying support around key health and development issues affecting the
community. It encompasses advocacy, community engagement, and social mobilization
strategies to foster collective action, behavior change, and community participation in
addressing health challenges.

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Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor
 • Rationale: Mobilization is essential for generating awareness, fostering community
ownership, and catalyzing action on health and development concerns.

• By engaging community members in dialogue, participation, and advocacy, the CHO

builds momentum, fosters social cohesion, and empowers individuals to become agents
of change in addressing shared health challenges.

• Mobilization efforts enhance community resilience, promote social justice, and

contribute to sustainable development outcomes.

5. Implementation of livelihood initiatives:

• Explanation: Livelihood initiatives aim to improve socio-economic conditions and

enhance community resilience by providing income-generating opportunities, skills
training, and support for sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives complement health
programs by addressing underlying determinants of health, such as poverty, food
insecurity, and unemployment.

• Rationale: Implementation of livelihood initiatives contributes to holistic community

development by addressing socio-economic disparities and promoting economic
empowerment. By diversifying income sources, enhancing skills, and fostering
entrepreneurship, livelihood programs strengthen community resilience, reduce
vulnerability to health risks, and improve overall well-being.

…………………………………………………………..oOo……………………………………………………………

Prepared by:

Julita Javellana Rodriguez, RN MSN

Clinical Instructor