Chapter 9. Intervention for the construction of solidarity networks in the municipality of Palmira-Valle, Colombia

This chapter explores the process of building solidarity networks as a significant strategy for community intervention, highlighting their capacity to articulate and link diverse individuals or communities working to solve common problems or thematic axes. The positive impact of these networks is emphasized by empowering the population as active agents of their own development and facilitating mutual support among those who share similar interests. The proposal strengthens participation in the territories, adapting to specific contexts and promoting autonomous conflict resolution.

Networking is considered a valuable tool in various fields, and from psychology, supporting these processes implies an assertive relationship with communities, addressing issues in a situated manner and understanding the dynamics of building the social fabric. The chapter explores how creating and strengthening community ties fosters a sense of identity and common purpose, enabling communities to identify their needs and seek collective solutions. It highlights the importance of community participation, empowerment and leadership in the consolidation of solidarity networks that drive local development and social transformation.

The project presented was developed within the framework of a professional internship at the Secretariat of Community Participation, seeking to promote citizen participation in the transformation of the territories and the construction of social fabric. It became evident how populations try to solve local problems in isolation, limiting their impact. The proposal to consolidate links between communities affected by similar issues is proposed as a strategy to generate a greater impact through the exchange of knowledge and experiences, satisfying common needs and building collective action to improve living conditions. The main objective was to contribute to the formation and strengthening of solidarity networks for collective construction and local development, promoting active participation, supporting the construction of the social fabric and fostering the development of capacities for the continuity of the networks.