Brian Colwell’s Post

While much of our emphasis has been on the importance of linking and bridging social capital, it's crucial to underscore another essential aspect: bonding social capital. Opportunity Insights' research clearly demonstrates the impact of social capital across class lines, but the social capital with people who share similar backgrounds and experiences is equally important. This form of social capital—bonding social capital—plays a vital role in providing emotional support, fostering trust, and creating a sense of belonging among individuals. At Social Capital Builders, our work primarily focuses on enhancing economic mobility. However, we would be remiss not to highlight the significance of bonding social capital. Building strong, supportive relationships with those who understand and relate to your experiences can be a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. In the following video, our founder, Edward DeJesus, addresses this critical issue. He speaks passionately about the necessity of seeking out others for support, emphasizing that sometimes the bravest thing you can say is, "Help." Edward urges everyone to recognize the power of both bridging connections that expand opportunities and bonding connections that provide vital support and community. We hope this message inspires you to harness the full spectrum of social capital in your journey towards economic mobility, health, and social well-being. National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) Opportunity Insights National Association of Workforce Boards National Youth Employment Coalition Aruna Miller Maryland Department of Labor Maryland Innovation Center U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Jobs for the Future (JFF) JFFVentures MDRC https://lnkd.in/eeHUibEQ

Many in the rising generation have a unique perspective on affecting social change. Traditional approaches to connecting wealth transfers and giving may not resonate well. This article discusses why it’s crucial to understand this cohort and how to adapt giving strategies: https://buff.ly/3uLMqbU

Most conceptual approaches to social capital assume that social relationships are universally positive. Professor Robison's work is a notable exception, acknowledging that relationships are complex and can span from empathetic to antipathetic and anything in between. His latest work goes beyond dyadic relationships between two individuals or groups and looks at triadic relationships. This innovative approach can be used to explore social structures and transitions in societies, schools, workplaces, teams, businesses, and countries. #socialcapital

Social cohesion is crucial as it fosters positive social relations, a sense of belonging, and collective orientation towards the common good. It helps address societal challenges, reduces conflicts, and promotes stability and economic growth. Enhanced social cohesion leads to more inclusive and resilient communities.

Fascinating interview with Robert D. Putnam on the precipitous decline of social capital / person connections in the US, and the dangers of social isolation. He then outline a better way forward. #daretocare about bridging social capital.

Join us on Wednesday, April 3rd, for a webinar by Emeritus Professor Lindon Robison from Michigan State University on social capital and triads of relationships. This webinar will explore a unique and innovative line of inquiry to understanding social capital. Social capital theory has typically been used to study binary relationships. This webinar will move beyond traditional binary relationships to examine triads of binary connections. By studying triads, important social structures emerge, revealing insights that are not evident when only considering binary relationships. For more information and to register for free, visit https://lnkd.in/giV5jxar #socialcapital

This is an important webinar that presents a unique and innovative approach to understanding social capital, with significant implications for real-world applications. #socialcapital

Many in the rising generation have a unique perspective on affecting social change. Traditional approaches to connecting wealth transfers and giving may not resonate well. This article discusses why it’s crucial to understand this cohort and how to adapt giving strategies: https://buff.ly/3uLMqbU

"This is the spirit with which we enter this conversation" I like stories that announce the speaker and their intention. Situating ourselves and announcing how we intend to enter a conversation has something powerful and anchoring. Jara Dean-Coffey (she/her/hers) and John Kania share how they've been looking under the surface of 5 words widely used in social justice movements “impact,” “indicators,” “lived experience,” “transformation” and “scale" For instance: "...the impact paradigm increasingly feels no longer fit for purpose to describe and gauge the social change we need — and perhaps never was the right paradigm to begin with. It connotes “doing unto and onto others,” instead of working alongside others in solidarity — not surprising, perhaps, considering the etymology of the word" I particularly appreciate the emphasis on mutuality and connectivity being fundamental qualities in catalyzing social change. The part on evaluation resonates with the work of Lindsay Cole Francisca Rojas Lily Raphael Stéphane VINCENT and team from the Pushing the Boundaries of Public Sector Innovation project. In particular the work on evaluating transformational work & innovation. Thanks Tatiana Fraser for bringing this article in my feed and making me curious https://skoll.wf/451m0Rf

Happy to share that my chapter in Social (In)equality, Community Well-being and Quality of Life is now available in print & online Chapter 2: A holistic perspective to nurture quality of life and social equity https://lnkd.in/eXAcv-Fe