Following is a list of projects and initiatives that illustrate MDC?s paradigm for sustaining economic development, as outlined in MDC's The Building Blocks of Community Development. MDC believes that sustaining economic development depends on comprehensive community development. The six building blocks of community development are as follows:
| Business Development |
Build the economic base and create larger numbers of higher-quality jobs - jobs that provide a living wage, good benefits, and potential for advancement.
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| Workforce Development |
Create a high-skill, high-value workforce - the human resource base required for the knowledge economy.
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| Physical Infrastructure |
Utilize transportation and telecommunications to connect the community with distant markets, people, and educational options; provide essential infrastructure to ensure public health and safety.
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| Social Infrastructure |
Provide social supports to enable all people to live and work with dignity.
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| Cultural and Environmental Stewardship |
Preserve, enhance, and capitalize upon the natural, cultural, historical, and built environments.
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| Civic Infrastructure |
Create a culture of civic decision-making and problem-solving that is forward looking, accountable, and inclusive. |
The projects and initiatives listed below link to more information, including a project overview, outcomes and lessons learned, and contact information.