Redefining Community Health through Belonging
In a world where social isolation has become a pressing issue, especially among vulnerable populations, the Maybelle Center in Portland, Oregon, is redefining what it means to be a community health organization. For over 30 years, they have been at the forefront, tackling challenges that affect adults facing financial struggles, mental health complications, and social disconnection. As they evolve, the focus has shifted from merely fighting isolation to cultivating a greater sense of belonging within their community.
The Challenge of Measuring Belonging
The question of measuring something as subjective as “belonging” posed a significant challenge for Maybelle Center staff, as Lead Member Inclusion Coordinator Shane Skinner points out. The subjective nature of belonging makes it difficult to quantify and assess effectively. However, by incorporating a model known as the Belonging Barometer, they have developed a structured approach to define and measure belonging, transforming it from an abstract concept into actionable insights.
Implementing the Belonging Barometer
The Belonging Barometer serves as a research-backed tool that breaks down the intricate facets of belonging into measurable parts. By doing so, it enables organizations to identify gaps and create targeted interventions. Maybelle Center began using this framework not just as a measurement tool, but also as a guide for shaping their programming and community engagement strategies. With focused priorities—such as ensuring individuals feel welcomed, valued, and able to express diverse opinions—they can intentionally design events and activities that reinforce these dimensions.
Practical Steps Toward Measuring Belonging
Implementing the Belonging Barometer doesn't require extensive resources or complicated procedures. The Maybelle Center's launch of their survey demonstrates that a simple, pragmatic approach can yield significant insights. They utilized existing tools to introduce the survey through their monthly newsletter, mailed out paper surveys, and partnered with knowledgeable volunteers to analyze the data. This straightforward tactic encourages other organizations to try measuring belonging without overhauling their existing systems.
A Continuous Feedback Loop
Each annual application of the Belonging Barometer survey grants the Maybelle Center the ability to track changes and improvements in members' experiences over time. By asking targeted questions before events about how they will enhance belonging and evaluating the outcomes afterward, the organization continuously learns and adapts. This iterative process not only builds community but also fosters an environment of responsiveness to members' needs.
Broader Implications for Attorneys and Activists
For civil rights and immigration attorneys, the implications of the Belonging Barometer are profound. As they work toward supporting marginalized communities, utilizing such a framework allows for more effectively assessing community needs and strengthening bonds. Understanding belonging can help lawyers advocate better for their clients, ensuring that legal strategies address not only rights but also emotional well-being and community connections.
Tools for Implementation and Improvement
Organizations looking to adopt a similar approach can utilize the free resources offered by the Maybelle Center, including the Belonging Barometer Quick Start Guide. By focusing on a few dimensions of belonging, legal and advocacy organizations can begin measuring their impact on the communities they serve. The potential to transform how staff and community members interact can significantly alter the landscape of relationship-building.
Begin Your Journey Toward Measuring Belonging
Whether you are a community leader or an attorney advocating for change, the pathway to measuring and improving belonging starts with a single step. With practical tools and an adaptable framework, the Belonging Barometer empowers every organization to make sense of belonging and effect real change.
Write A Comment