COMMUNITY MAPPING

Below are a list of anchor resources and sample projects to support an investigation of Community Mapping.

Community Mapping is an integral part of the SYEP PBL program. Projects around the world involve mapping to accomplish many things. This resource page has many options for facilitators to engage participants in discovering real world issues and challenges that exist in their community. Mapping is all about Voice and Choice as young people decide what goes on their maps and how they will present the information to community stake holders both visually and informationally.

As an initial resource around both mapping and the voice opportunities that reside inside it, we share the work of a Central African Organization called Invisible Children. Invisible Children works with trusted local peacebuilders in conflict zones across central Africa to help their communities organize to prevent violent conflict, recover from its impact, and build sustainable peace. Although it is not a youth focused group it does identify the types of things that young people can do with the information that they obtain. Visit https://invisiblechildren.com/

In this activity participants learn about their community, its assets and challenges, as well as seek to understand how it's geography impacts utilization. When we think about where our community resources are does the location of the resource help or hinder community members from accessing the resources. Does the location of the farmers market encourage or discourage residents from accessing the more wholesome food.

Roots and Shoots United States
There are many resources available for support including where participants will:
  • Learn about the geography and layout of their communities.
  • Determine areas of need for people.
  • Identify resources that may support efforts to meet community needs.
  • Form a deeper commitment and resulting empathy towards other people and environments that make up their community.

Roots and Shoots Investigate Lesson Plan: Community Mapping

https://rootsandshoots.org/resources/community-mapping-101-2/

  • Define Community
  • Understand interdependency of people and places
  • Mapping resources and needs