Exploring the Insider Role in Community Practice Within Diverse Communities

Abstract

Recognizing and bridging the gaps between those who are part of a community and those from mainstream culture is an important one for community social work. There is however, little research on the experience and perception of the insider worker. This paper reports on a SSHRC funded project that is focused on community practice in marginalized communities. Community workers from four diverse communities were interviewed. An issue that recurred throughout was the significance of their personal location. This paper will outline some of the key elements that appear to provide the workers with important advantages and some dilemmas. The paper argues that it is crucial for community social work practice to listen to the voices of insider community workers and the issues they raise.