What is meant by civic and
social capacity? These terms have come to mean the combination of citizens'
skills, commitment to community, and resources (both internal and external)
that are the foundation of survival and prosperity. These capacities enhance
the chance that economic development will be successful. For example, citizen
groups that use a strategic planning process for guiding the future of their
community are applying the same skills needed for good business management and
entrepreneurial expansion. Civic and social capacity is the necessary
foundation for community and economic development at all levels.
Within the Northern Great Plains region, many organizations are
involved in building community capacity. Recognition of the foundation role
that civic and social capacity plays is growing among policy makers and
developers. The public policy implications of this particular Working Group's
charge are important to all of the Commission's recommendations since civic
capacity represents much of the ability of all types of leaders and citizens to
act on recommendations for improving the region.
The area of the Northern Great Plains is rich in the pioneer tradition of
successful home-grown businesses, strong local governments and self-reliant
communities. Historically, the high quality of education (as evidenced in
above-average high school completion rates and standardized test scores that
exceed our international competitors) has been a contributor to civic capacity.
The "culture" of the region is strongly identified with local control
and community independence.
