Social Network Analysis in a Community Development Context

Abstract Information: If you want to learn about utilizing Social Network Analysis (SNA) methodology to identify program impacts in a Community Development context, this presentation is for you! We will share findings and key learnings from a real-life SNA project which provided Umoja Community Mosaic, a grassroots community-based organization in Calgary, Alberta, the opportunity to visualize and sense-make the nature of connections and relationships among program participants. Umoja serves newcomers and low-income families, creating opportunities that build belonging through Community Development approaches rooted in recreation, learning, and inclusion. The Social Network Analysis project goals were to support the organization in learning about connection attributes such as trust, belonging, and mutual support, as they manifested among children, youth, and families in their programs. SNA visualizations and analysis supported a collaborative sensemaking process, helping Umoja see how their work contributes to impacts including collective actualization, self-determination, and social and economic participation for structurally marginalized and often unheard communities.