ABCD Model For Poverty

The ABCD model for poverty focuses on the strengths, knowledge, resources and skills of individuals rather than the problem that is at hand. It is a holistic approach that begins with identifying individuals as being made in the image of God. Thereupon, the model uses one’s assets to empower individuals to use them to solve problems rather than others solving problems for them. The ultimate goal of this method is to alleviate poverty and create an environment that is sustainable where people and communities benefit and life is improved. As a missionary in training, I have now spent a few years doing exactly that, training. And as I train, I seek to learn and familiarize myself with the location, people, culture, and potential issues in the
What does this mean? I must create an environment that brings out the best in people. Broadly speaking, I must be pointing out and asking, “what is right with you?” to initiate a positive mind. In a person who has a marred identity, a negative environment will not be a good starting point. In the process of creating a healthy, positive environment, individuals will no longer be tempted to rely on relief, rather the positive assets that they too are able to offer. Further down the road these same individuals will feel as if they have a voice in society. The idea at hand is modeled in Colossians 1:16-17. Although we are people of sin, we have been made in the image of God and are filled with “goodness.” God makes it his priority that we know we are good even in our
However, as others look back and study these methods they realize that they did not actually help in any form of alleviation. One example is the blueprint method where individuals make decisions on behalf of the poor in which they have come to help. It produces a nonparticipatory approach when the opposite should be the focus. Individuals focus too much on getting the job done rather than taking the necessary time to achieve sustainable results.
Too many times missionaries and non-profit organizations end up providing relief or investing in businesses to get individuals started. At times this can be seen as rehabilitation because they are helping them make a living. However, they are missing the empowerment portion. People need educated in certain aspects and once organizations or individuals leave town, people are left with resources they sometimes do not know how to fully utilize--leaving the resources