Faith-Based Versus Secular Approaches to Community Development

Faith-Based Versus Secular Approaches to Community Development: The Case of the African American Community in Los Angeles challenges conventional wisdom about the similarities between faith-based and secular community development corporations (CDCs) and explores factors that contribute to differential project outcomes. It provides empirical research on four highly successful organizations in South Los Angeles and Watts. The analysis reveals similar origins, but differences in how community development capacity is established. The findings depict vibrant organizations that work with neighborhood residents to overcome tremendous odds. Faith-Based Versus Secular Approaches is essential reading for scholars and community development professionals alike who want to understand the vital role of CDCs in African American communities.

Autorentext

is Assistant Professor of Afro-Ethnic Studies at California State University, Fullerton. She is a contributor to the Encyclopedia of African American History and lives with her family in Southern California.