Unleashing the Power of Community Animators

Abstract

The word animation comes from the Latin words anima (soul), animatio (revival), animus (vigour) and the verb animo, which in Latin has three meanings: (1) to blow, (2) to breathe life into something, to give soul, to bring to life, (3) to stimulate, to add courage, to encourage, to make bold. In French, the word animer means to bring life, give strength to action, initiate a specific undertaking, or encourage.We can see the person of the social animator as someone who:• shapes the sense of community by building relationships and social ties, • activates and motivates others to act, • creatively unleashes the potential in other people and communities, • emancipates and empowers people, groups, and communities, including those marginalised and socially excluded, • may influence public participation, i.e. influencing decisions.The following chapters of the book aim to present in a clear way who the social animators are, what actions they can take, how animators can develop their competencies and how animators' influences can affect society. The publication is addressed to young people and all people and institutions interested in animators of the local environment, 13 14 Valerij Dermol, Jagoda Idzik, and Nada Trunk Širca especially to organisations with adequate resources to organise training for young people.Local animators play an increasingly important role in communities in today's fast-paced (digitally) connected world. These imaginative people contribute significantly to forming and enhancing communities through their unique talents and skills. To highlight local animators' significant contributions and lasting effects on the communities they serve, this book intends to study the value, identity, and flexibility of animators in the area.In Chapter 2, 'Exploring Local Animators' Value, Identity and Adaptability, ' we journey to comprehend the essence of animation and its profound influence on society. We explore animation's different forms, methods, and uses and its definition. We also dig into the world of animators, looking at their obligations during the creative process of collaboration and communication. Finally, we thoroughly try to understand animators' numerous tasks to bring their dreams to life by examining their job responsibilities. On the strength of this basis, we explore the particular functions and significance of animators within the neighbourhood. We learn how these gifted people support the growth of local communities, the dissemination of knowledge, and the fostering of relationships among various cultures. We also look at their capacity to include neighbourhood residents and link them to essential resources and services. Animators promote more participation in civil society, resulting in higher competence, self-confidence, and self-esteem among community members. They do this by assisting in community initiatives and encouraging people to express their rights.Chapter 3, 'Competencies of Local Community Animators, ' focuses on the competencies and skill sets required for success as a local c...