What is social capital

Principles Undergirding Social Capital Approaches

According to our expert advisors, before individual practices are put in place, certain principles – referred to by those involved as ideas, convictions, or values — need to exist in programs first.

They should be recognized and used by staff. All aspects of a social capital-based approach rely on these principles.

People at the Center

Many social capital programs we studied explicitly aim to center individuals or families, viewing participants as the experts, inviting them to drive the goals and services, and using staff as facilitators and supporters instead of directors.

Person-centered programming is also trauma-informed, including understanding how trauma may impact participants’ engagement and rapport development. When participants are listened to, and/or given autonomy to drive the process, they may be more likely to feel cared for and respected, and trusting, reciprocal relationships may be more likely to develop among them and with program staff and volunteers.

how to build social capital in our society