Ten Characteristics of Empowerment-Oriented Social Service Organizations

ABSTRACT

The empowerment of both clients and workers in social service organizations requires a firm commitment on the part of administrators. Formal structures that support the involvement of staff members and clientele in organization decision-making are also required. This article identifies ten characteristics associated with effective empowerment-oriented strategies in social service organizations. Outcomes associated with the empowerment approach such as increased program effectiveness, reductions in staff turnover, and the development of a constituency base for the organization are also identified. The limitations of the empowerment approach to organization management are described.

Key Words:

• Empowerment
• citizen participation
• social service organizations
• political empowerment
• management strategies