New Orleans Neighborhoods Partnership Network

Helping Your Neighbors by Connecting Them to Resources

Case management at it’s most basic is defined as “people connecting other people with resources.” Social workers are case managers, helping people identify the steps they need to take in their recovery, whatever kind of recovery that is. Neighborhood organizations can also provide case management to their neighbors. Organizations like NENA and Broadmoor Improvement Association provide neighbors with in-depth case management which includes a long intake process from neighbors who come into their offices. Other organizations can provide some of the same resources even if they have no staff and limited resources.

Here are some ways in which even small organizations can connect their neighbors to resources around them by identifying and addressing problems common to the whole area neighborhood:

1. Identify the relief organizations active in your area: This way when someone comes to you or your association looking for help, you know a good place to refer them. Sometimes there are a variety of organizations that can help people with different types of resources.

2. Get the word out: Since you live in your neighborhood, if you hear about a useful resource, let your friends and neighbors know. Talking about resources at neighborhood meetings is important so everyone knows what is available to them and their friends. Also, if you do outreach for meetings, consider that as another way to let people know about important resources. You can always invite resource-providers to come to your meeting and speak for themselves, too.

3. Use the data: Neighborhood associations often receive survey data from outside groups or collect data themselves. By identifying community-wide needs or trends, you can advocate for better resources in your area. You might be able to request that local universities or volunteer organizations help you address some neighborhood-wide needs. Or demand the city address infrastructure problems. You can even use it to show businesses why they should locate in your neighborhood. Remember, the easier you make it for an outside organization to get involved in your neighborhood, the more likely it is that they will.

Created By: Neighborhoods Partnership Network