(Photo courtesy of University of Guam)
Individuals involved in community development projects — whether village mayors, municipal planning council members, government agencies, or non-government organizations — are invited to learn about the process of asset mapping. In an upcoming webinar titled “Introduction to Asset Mapping: Strategic Doing for Stronger Communities,” the community development team of the University of Guam Land Grant Extension Service will teach about the process of asset mapping for identifying local strengths, building partnerships, and developing community-driven solutions.
The webinar will be held on Zoom from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6, with an identical session held at the same time on Tuesday, Aug. 11.
“Communities are strongest when they recognize and build on resources they already have,” said Peter Barcinas, a UOG extension agent with a master’s in management who will be conducting the webinar. “As Guam continues to address community needs and plan for future growth, asset mapping provides an effective framework. Especially now — with new funding opportunities and calls for proposal that have come available — it is an ideal time for organizations and community leaders to strengthen their planning and to develop community-driven projects.”
Peter Barcinas, a UOG extension agent (Photo courtesy of University of Guam)
If a planning group wanted to build a community garden, improve a public facility, or take steps to alleviate a community problem, for example, the process of asset mapping is a starting point that will identify potential partners and resources in achieving the end goal. The idea is to rely less on outside help and more on the skills, spaces, and infrastructure that are already accessible.
In the webinar, participants will learn:
the principles and benefits of asset mapping
how to identify community assets, strengths, and available resources
how to apply asset mapping strategies to support local projects and initiatives
how to develop practical tools for planning, decision-making, and sustainable community development.
The webinar is free to attend and open to all who have a role in developing programs and initiatives to strengthen Guam’s community.
Those interested can register at https://url.uog.edu/asset-mapping. The webinar link will be emailed to those who register. For more information, please contact Kheila Lacson at (671) 735-2055 or lacsonk@triton.uog.edu.
