Restoring community damage

Repairing damage to community

Description

Restoring community damage involves coordinated actions to repair physical, social, and economic harm caused by disasters, conflict, or neglect. This strategy prioritizes rebuilding infrastructure, reestablishing essential services, and fostering social cohesion. It addresses immediate needs such as shelter and healthcare, while also supporting long-term recovery through community engagement, resource mobilization, and capacity building. The core intent is to restore functionality, resilience, and well-being, enabling affected communities to recover and thrive sustainably.

Implementation

The Banana Kelly Community Improvement Association of the South Bronx area of New York grew out of a community so angry at the dilapidated state of their housing project that they burn it down. Twenty years later, the same community has not only rebuilt itself, but is embarking on a US $500,000 project that will provide recycling service to all of New York City. Their motto: "Don't Move, Improve !"