Community Economic Development
Community Economic Development (CED) is a community-led process of local / regional revitalization. It is a perspective which places the community as the foremost player in its growth or renewal.
CED emphasizes that the people of a community should be directly involved in pursuing and managing their own economic development.
It is recognized that various regions and populations demonstrate different needs and opportunities. In order to achieve success, economic development should be charged with local community-led planning and implementation. CED is driven by a community-based approach.
What role does Community Futures South Fraser play in CED?
Community Futures South Fraser, through their strategic planning with the board and staff, and local community consultation, determine the role that they will play in CED in their communities each year. For example, they may decide to be the leaders, or the facilitators, coordinators, partners, etc.
CFSF has many "tools" to assist with CED in the South Fraser Region. These tools can include such areas as technical support, counselling, community convening, related research, and project development. For examples of projects that we either spearhead or support, see our projects.
Why is CED needed?
The principles of CED require that community members get together to address those issues affecting the quality of life in their community. Using those principles, CFSF assists in business creation, social enterprise development, community project building, and local animation of the people who call the South Fraser region home. This proactive involvement results in enhanced economic and social viability for the community, the region, and the province.
Community Economic Development focuses
on the economic,
social, cultural, environmental and educational needs of a community
as a whole. All aspects of life important to residents must be addressed
if the community is to develop and still
maintain its quality of life.
