Community assessments are a continuous, purposeful process that help Community Social Workers (CSWs), connect collected data with lived experiences, laying the groundwork for inclusive community engagement.

CSWs have a solid understanding of existing data about their neighbourhoods. This information comes from a range of sources, including Statistics Canada, Equity Index and reports from partner organizations, such as Calgary Economic Development, Vibrant Communities and the United Way of Calgary and Area. Drawing upon those sources, assessments then help more clearly animate the lived reality at the local level.

Assessments additionally support the residents’ augmentation of the local meaning of the information, through the gathering and sharing of “stories.” These stories and local facts then help Community Social Workers work with residents to use the assets of the community to provide effective, efficient and sustainable responses.