Powered
from Within
Powered
from Within
Powered
from Within
Shifting the Focus: A Different Way of Seeing Our Community
At Sacramento Mountains Foundation, our philosophy recognizes every resident, association, and local business as a vital building block for our future. Our efforts aren't focused on what might be wrong with Otero County; instead, we focus on the abundant assets existing within our communities. This is the heart of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD).
From Recipients to Partners
Traditional philanthropy often focuses on needs and problems, which can create a cycle of dependency. We believe in a more empowering approach. By identifying and mobilizing the existing strengths within our neighborhoods, we shift control back into the hands of the local leaders who are rooted here. In our eyes, you aren’t just a recipient of support; you are a partner for progress in the community.
"Reclaiming the power of community begins with investing in the people rooted here."
Mapping the Assets of Otero County
Our work involves "asset mapping" — a collaborative effort to discover the hidden gems within our region. We focus on five key areas to build a stronger Otero County:
-
Individuals: The unique gifts, skills, and talents of every person—from a dedicated educator to an outstanding volunteer.
-
Associations: The local nonprofits, groups, faith-based organizations, and clubs that bring us together.
-
Institutions: Our schools, libraries, municipalities, and businesses that provide the structure for our daily lives.
-
Physical Assets: The natural, historic, and cultural beauty within our county, plus our parks and the public spaces we share.
-
Local Economy: The power of our local businesses and the connecting of resources within our own community.
Unleashing Our Collective Potential
When we build on what we already have, the results are sustainable, resilient, and authentic. The Foundation acts as a catalyst, providing the tools and empowering resources to help Otero County reach its full potential.
We believe that with the right partnerships, the people rooted in our communities can better promote our hometowns as places that emanate pride and are welcoming to everyone.