Activity 2.1: Role of Community Leaders

Introduction

For this discussion, you will have the opportunity to describe the role community leaders play in your chosen community issue. 

First, let’s define “community.” In the context of this course, we are attempting to involve you in your local community or a community you have access to. Think of your church, the community center in your city, local business groups, an organization you may belong to, or even your workplace. All of these local communities represent a larger community. Think global. Act local.

Community leaders are integral within communities, and the power and influence they possess can impact communities positively or negatively. Community leaders are defined as any person who possesses decision-making capabilities within the community (a school principal, pastor, mayor, club president, etc.). Therefore, gaining further understanding as to some of the specific roles community leaders play in your chosen issue will help you to more clearly understand a potential solution.

Initial Post Instructions

Consider your understanding of community leaders and provide responses to the following questions:

Based on your current understanding of your community issue, describe what role you see leaders in your community playing.

What approaches would you use to identify and contact those main thought leaders and decision-makers in your community?

• Why might it be important and valuable to identify these community leaders based on the expectations of the final project?