Community Animator Network

Be part of the movement!

The Community Animator Network (CAN) is a place where everyone is welcome. We train individuals in Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) to create sustainable change in neighborhoods and communities. Our approach is rooted in existing strengths, fairness, inclusivity, and justice. By developing strong relationships with our neighbors, we nurture a culture that celebrates social connection and all the skills, knowledge, and strengths around us. This social fabric also uplifts communities by reducing isolation and loneliness, crime, and the risk of chronic diseases.

Joining CAN means more than just a 12-week paid program. It's an opportunity to become part of a supportive community, to become a Community Animator and create change right where you live in as little as 5 hours a week. Animators become skilled in identifying, connecting, and mobilizing the assets in their communities to address issues and build stronger communities.

We have multiple cohorts throughout the year and would love for you to join one!

Interested in becoming an Animator?

Community Animators make meaningful change right outside their front doors.

  • Submit an application to let us know you’re interested! Cohorts are held 2-3 times each year, but you can apply anytime and we’ll be in touch to learn more about you and your interest in CAN.

  • CAN is a 12-week paid program where you and the other individuals in your cohort will learn the basics of asset-based community development (ABCD). Animators are expected to commit to a total of 5 hours a week for the 12-weeks.

    This includes 3 in-person workshops, and 12-weeks of online learning, reading, and group discussions. During these sessions you’ll have the opportunity to develop strong relationships with your fellow cohort members, share in each other’s neighboring successes and discoveries, learn from each other, and provide support as you navigate this cultural change.

  • In short, ABCD is all about focusing on what’s strong, not what’s wrong. The ABCD model shifts our mindset from one of scarcity to abundance.

    Everything we need is right around us if we are open to learning and discovering. Dig deeper on the ABCD Institute website.

  • Nope! It’s not required because this is a contract position. If selected, you will complete a 1099 form and you can use an ITIN.

  • Currently we can only pay Animators who reside in Kansas. If you live outside of Kansas and are interested in our CAN program, please email us and we can discuss your options for participating.

Discover the strengths in your neighborhood!

Animator Directory