On Caring Communities and Relationships
I think that the difference between participation and being intentional about relationships in caring communities is huge and important to think about.
This is because when we ask “how can someone participate in our program?” we start thinking of the program, not the person. But when we ask “how can I relate with a person in a caring community?” then we start with the person.
Forming relationships with families, and being intentional about relationships, should be the goal. Then we can focus on each family, one person at a time, and ask ourselves what can I do to facilitate a deeper relationship?
- Build trust
- Listen to each other
- Respond to each other
- Respect each other
Over time, relationships will develop and provide a base for a community to emerge. And that is why we should think more about relationships, less about participation or involvement.
