American International Journal of Social Science

Asset Mapping and Resource Guide Development in Partnership with Title One Schools
Julie Williams Merten, Elissa H. Barr, Heather Monroe-Ossi, MEdMona Vosoughi, Jessica L. King, Stacey Griner

Abstract
Background: Poverty significantly affects student achievement. Asset mapping is a community development model used for revitalizing communities by building on a community’s strengths rather than its challenges. Objective: Describe how asset the mapping process was used to develop neighborhood resource guides in five Title I school neighborhoods. Methods: Roundtable discussions with community stakeholders yielded local resources. Researchers worked with community partners to identify assets and create resource guides. Results: Special efforts must be made to keep stakeholders focused on assets rather than perceived barriers. Brochures may be more valuable than electronic resource guides in impoverished neighborhoods. Conclusions: Improving outcomes for students living in disadvantaged neighborhoods requires collaboration at every level. Neighborhood asset mapping provides a platform for beginning the process.

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