Participatory Development
A development approach that actively involves local communities in identifying problems, planning solutions, and implementing programs that affect their lives. It is grounded in the belief that people have the right and the ability to shape their own development.
Source: Chambers, Robert. “Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)”, World Bank, UNDP documents
Volunteerism
The act of offering time, skills, or services freely and without financial gain to benefit others, often through charitable, community, or nonprofit initiatives.
Source: United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Program
Philanthropy
The desire to promote the welfare of others, usually expressed by donating money, resources, or time to charitable causes, often through organized giving or foundations.
Source: Merriam-Webster Dictionary; Council on Foundations
Social Norms Theory
People tend to adopt behaviors they perceive as common or socially approved. By making prosocial actions like donating or volunteering visible, we normalize them and encourage wider participation.
Source: Cialdini, R. B., Kallgren, C. A., & Reno, R. R. (1991). “A Focus Theory of Normative Conduct”
Theory of Planned Behavior
Behavior is shaped by a person’s attitudes, perceived social pressure, and their sense of control over taking action. We aim to influence all three to make giving and participating easier and more meaningful.
Source: Ajzen, I. (1991). “The Theory of Planned Behavior”
Theory of Planned Behavior
Individuals are motivated to act in ways that align with the values of the groups they identify with. A shared identity around compassion and social good fosters stronger commitment and deeper engagement.
Source: Tajfel, H. & Turner, J.C. (1979). “An Integrative Theory of Intergroup Conflict”
Community-Based Social Marketing
CBSM focuses on removing barriers to behavior change at the community level through targeted outreach, social proof, and sustained engagement.
Source: McKenzie-Mohr, D. (2011). “Fostering Sustainable Behavior: An Introduction to Community-Based Social Marketing”
Collective Impact Model
This approach emphasizes cross-sector collaboration, shared goals, and structured coordination to achieve large-scale social change.
Source: Kania, J., & Kramer, M. (2011). “Collective Impact,” Stanford Social Innovation Review