Community Development Specialist

Community Development Specialists work with communities to improve their social and economic well-being. They may work in a variety of settings, including local government, non-profit organizations, community groups, and private-sector businesses. Community Development Specialists typically have a master’s degree in Community Development, Public Administration, or a related field. They may also have experience in social work, community organizing, or economic development.

Education

Most Community Development Specialists have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as Community Development, Public Administration, or Social Work. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Community Development or a related field.

Skills

Community Development Specialists typically have strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. They are also able to work independently and as part of a team.

Other skills that may be helpful for Community Development Specialists include:

• Grant writing
• Program evaluation
• Community organizing
• Economic development
• Public policy

Tools and Resources

Community Development Specialists often use a variety of tools and resources in their work, including:

• Community data and research
• GIS mapping
• Community engagement tools
• Grant writing software
• Program evaluation tools

Career Growth

Community Development Specialists may advance to leadership positions within their organizations, such as Program Manager or Executive Director. They may also move into related fields, such as Public Administration, Social Work, or Economic Development.

Transferable skills

The skills that Community Development Specialists develop can be transferred to a variety of other careers, including:

• Public Administrator
• Social Worker
• Economic Development Specialist
• Grant Writer
• Program Evaluator

Day-to-day responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of a Community Development Specialist may vary depending on their employer and the specific community they are working with. However, some common responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing community development plans
• Securing funding for community development projects
• Working with community members to identify and address their needs
• Evaluating the impact of community development programs
• Advocating for policies that support community development

Challenges

Community Development Specialists may face a number of challenges in their work, including:

• Limited funding for community development projects
• Resistance to change from community members
• The need to balance the needs of different stakeholders
• The complex and ever-changing nature of community development

Projects

Community Development Specialists may work on a variety of projects, including:

• Developing a community development plan
• Securing funding for a community development project
• Implementing a community development program
• Evaluating the impact of a community development program
• Advocating for policies that support community development

Personal growth opportunities

Community Development Specialists have the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in their work. They may develop their leadership skills, their understanding of community development, and their ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. They may also have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of community members.

Personality traits and personal interests

Community Development Specialists typically have a strong sense of social justice and a desire to make a difference in the world. They are also typically good communicators, problem-solvers, and team players.

Self-guided projects

Students who are interested in pursuing a career as a Community Development Specialist may want to consider completing some of the following self-guided projects:

• Volunteer with a community organization
• Organize a community event
• Conduct a community needs assessment
• Write a grant proposal
• Evaluate a community development program

Online courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about Community Development. Online courses can provide learners with the opportunity to learn about community development at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can also provide learners with the opportunity to connect with other learners and with experts in the field of community development. Some of the topics that may be covered in online courses in Community Development include:

• Community development theory
• Community development practice
• Community organizing
• Grant writing
• Program evaluation

Online courses can be a great way to prepare for a career as a Community Development Specialist. However, they are not a substitute for real-world experience. Learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a Community Development Specialist should consider volunteering with a community organization or interning with a community development agency.