My vision in my work with VOC this year is to explore the intersection of adult literacy and community development. Through research, I hope to learn more about the connection between research and practice in writing for adult learners; by working with a community-based organization I hope to deepen my knowledge and understanding of the impacts and challenges of working in a literacy program and how this translates into overall goals of improving livelihoods and building a more community strong. Throughout the semester, I realized greater potential to realize my goals in my work and worked on different components of my vision. Resource mapping is one of the highlights of this semester. Bergdall (2003) defines asset-based development as a mobilization of skills, resources and commitment of residents together with others rooted in the area to strengthen the economic and social well-being of the entire community. As I reviewed my personal resource map, I reflected on this definition of resource-based development and made connections on how I can leverage the resources I have for my economic and social well-being. Throughout the semester I have been intrigued by the connection between my personal resource map and my organizational resource map. While the organization may utilize both internal and external resources, a thorough understanding of the organization's individual resources is critical to strengthening the organization's functioning. My understanding of the networks, skills and interests I bring to the table is critical to the organization because it allows me to use those skills to leverage resources as a catalyst at an organizational level. About two years ago I took a course on individual...... middle of paper ......g with Prof. Binder. Writing this final piece allowed me to synthesize my experiences, but I found it more difficult to reflect and make deep connections throughout the semester. I would like to explore and develop a plan for an ongoing, challenging, connected and contextualized reflection process as Collier and Williams suggest. I am determined to develop a more disciplined reflection process for my work in communities as a student and as an individual. Works Cited Bergdall, T. (2003). Reflections on the Catalyzing Role of an Outsider in Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)Collier, PJ and Williams, DR Reflection in Action; The doing-learning relationship. Chapter 6.Illich, I. (1968) Good intentions be damned. Conference on Inter-American Student Projects (CIASP) Address.Reitenauer et al. Build and maintain community partnerships. Chapter 2.