ABCD Institute

The Asset-Based Community Development Institute (ABCD) is at the center of a large and growing movement that considers local assets as the primary building blocks of sustainable community development. Building on the skills of local residents, the power of local associations, and the supportive functions of local institutions, asset-based community development draws upon existing community strengths to build stronger, more sustainable communities for the future.

We invite you to learn about the institute and its work in the university and community context. We hope you will join us in building strong communities. The ABCD Institute is partnered with and housed at DePaul University’s Irwin W. Steans Center for Community-Based Service Learning & Community Service Studies located in Chicago, Illinois.

​It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved co-founder and mentor to so many, Jody Kretzmann. ​Jody's ability to see the gifts in individuals even when they couldn't themselves, to identify and value the assets that exist in all communities along with his welcoming, warm spirit was a gift to this world. Read more here.​​​

Read John McKnight's Tribute to Jody. 
Watch Canadian Senator Mary Coyle's Tribute to Jody on the Senate Floor
View April Doner's graphic recordings from Jody's memorial service
Read Jody's Obituary in the Chicago Tribune​

Read the Values Behind Asset-Based Community Development​

Asset Based Community Development Institute Policy Statement on Anti-Racism

Black Lives Matter.

The ABCD Institute acknowledges that Black and Brown people and Black and Brown communities are and have been under the occupation of systemic racism throughout American history for more than 400 years. We believe any community development work that does not acknowledge and address this reality is short sighted and will ultimately fail to build an authentic, sustainable, healthy community. 

ABCD methods lift up principles and practices with roots in Black and Brown communities. We recognize that these communities remain most affected by racial inequities and injustice. Our Institute recognizes and supports the gifts, strengths, power, and assets of people in these communities. We firmly believe in the transformative power of these communities which should be centered in any process of community development or organizing.  Read More