Compare four community strategies to understand their unique benefits and when to use each.
Assess your organization’s approach and create a plan to strengthen resident collaboration and leadership.
Build practical skills to engage, empower, and connect with residents for lasting community impact.
What to Expect
This course takes place over 4 days. Days 1 and 3 are each comprised of a total of 4 hours of live online instruction, divided into two sessions with a 1-hour break in between. Days 2 and 4 are dedicated to self-paced completion of all activities and assignments. All required coursework is due by 11:59 p.m. PT on the designated day of class.
Learner Expectations
To get the most out of this course, please complete any pre-work by the deadlines provided, attend and actively participate in all live sessions, and review the lesson materials regularly. You’ll be asked to join collaborative activities, share your experience, and ask questions along the way. Be sure to manage your time so you can complete all required tasks on schedule.
Technical Expectations
To get the most out of this course, you should be comfortable using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Zoom. We recommend having two monitors during live sessions—it makes it easier to follow along and participate. A webcam (even the one built into your laptop works great) and knowing how to download and upload files will also come in handy.
Key Assignments
Throughout the course you’ll complete key assignments that reinforce your learning and practical application. One such assignment involves completing a worksheet on community engagement strategies. You’ll also develop a community engagement strategy plan that you'll work on individually, discuss with others during live Zoom sessions, and turn in on the final day of class.
Other courses that may interest you:
Looking to keep building your skills? Check out these related courses:
CB107vcx Community Engagement and Activation Strategies
Learn effective strategies to engage and activate residents for stronger communities. This foundational course explores power dynamics, asset-based approaches, and the role of partnerships in community work. Develop practical skills to build trust, foster inclusivity, and create action plans that strengthen your organization’s engagement and activation efforts.
CB108vcx The Power of Communication: Talking, Listening and Messaging
Explore how your words and actions shape the way others perceive and respond to you. This course helps you understand the power of communication and equips you with tools including active listening, group facilitation, and audience-specific messaging to build stronger community connections.
CB310vcx Understanding & Influencing Public Policy
Learn how to influence public policy and amplify your community’s voice. This course helps you understand government structures, legal limits for nonprofits, and strategies for advocacy. Gain tools to build relationships with policymakers and develop action plans that support your community’s goals.
What You'll Learn
This course introduces four community participation strategies—services, building, engagement, and organizing—and helps you understand their distinct roles in fostering community collaboration. You’ll assess your organization’s current practices and explore how to shift toward more inclusive and empowering approaches. Through interactive discussions, you’ll learn how to align staff and resident roles, address power dynamics, and create a 30-60-90 day action plan to enhance community engagement. Whether you're new or experienced, this course equips you with practical tools to strengthen your community impact.
- Compare four community strategies to understand their unique benefits and when to use each.
- Assess your organization’s approach and create a plan to strengthen resident collaboration and leadership.
- Build practical skills to engage, empower, and connect with residents for lasting community impact.
Course Schedule
Who This Course Is For
Ideal For:
- Nonprofit staff supporting affordable housing programs
- Anyone working in communities
- Government employees seeking opportunity to support communities
Come Prepared for the Course
Welcome to this accelerated 4-day faculty-led course which is designed for optimal interactivity and engagement. Days 1 and 3, are each comprised of a total of 4 hours of live online instruction, divided into two sessions with a 1-hour break in between. Days 2 and 4 are dedicated to self-paced completion of all activities and assignments. All required coursework is due by 11:59 p.m. PT on the designated day of class.
Pre-Work & Preparation
Complete all pre-work by provided deadlines
Active Participation
Attend live sessions and engage in collaborative activities
Software Requirements
Microsoft Excel and Zoom proficiency required
Hardware Setup
Dual monitors, webcam, and file management capabilities
Your Instructor
NWA Faculty
Instructor
What Learners Are Saying
Community Engagement Master Credential
CB105vcx is one of five courses that make up this Master Credential
Courses needed to earn this credential:
- CB105vcx
- CB106vcx
- CB107vcx
- CB108vcx
- CB200vcx
Ready to Get Started?
Join hundreds of housing counselors building the skills to create lasting community impact