Breakthrough Solutions – Creating 21st Communities That Are Vibrant, Sustainable, and Resilient

Breakthrough Solutions is an award-winning, next-generation strategic planning and development program of the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service with partners in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

We live in a time of accelerating and unprecedented change; what worked 10 years ago or even five years ago may not work today. Successful communities, regions and businesses understand the key drivers of change in the world, and leverage their assets to create breakthroughs that can move them forward, sometimes in dramatic ways. 

The Breakthrough Solutions Program is a comprehensive, asset-based approach to developing communities and regions that are vibrant, sustainable and resilient. This takes asset-based development to the next level, and builds on Dr. Vaughn Grisham’s research on extraordinary communities*, Thomas Kuhn’s work on the nature of change**, plus research and extensive experience in community development.

“Breakthrough Solutions is considered one of the most cutting-edge programs in the field because it incorporates asset-based work and innovative tools to break beyond boundaries.”                         
         Gisele Hamm, Awards Committee Chairperson Community Development Society

The strategies, action process, and tools within Breakthrough Solutions can be valuable for community leaders, citizens, and organizations in the public, private and non-profit sectors. For more information on Breakthrough Solutions, go to:

• Breakthrough Solutions Program and Model
• Breakthrough Solutions Partners and Advisory Council
• Funding Sponsors
• Community and Regional Success Stories
• Testimonials
• Awards and Recognition
• 2011-2012 Winter Breakthrough Solutions Conference Presentations
• 2010 Breakthrough Solutions Conference  
• Incredible Breakthrough Art (PDF)
• Breakthrough News – Community Development Opportunities, Incredible Stories and Coming Events
• Harnessing Key Drivers of Change Articles

References

* Grisham, V. “Extraordinary Results in Ordinary Communities: Transforming Towns and Growing People”.  A study for the Kettering Foundation, 2010.

** Kuhn, T.S. (1962). The structure of scientific revolutions.  Chicago: The University of Chicago Press.

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