Fish Forever’s overarching community-driven approach and concrete elements within it, like savings clubs, have strengthened bonds between community members and built social capital across fishing communities. Stronger social cohesion and greater social capital—through shared savings and joint participation in natural resource management— proved essential in times of crises and resulted in families and communities supporting each other with food and other essentials.
A community-driven approach that places people at the center of the solution is essential. Savings clubs (SC) build community cohesion, increase trust & improve communication and coordination. Members come together to save weekly, making it a shared, transparent process. In addition to a savings fund, SC also includes a social fund that can be used for emergencies or community projects, serving as shared capital in times of need.
Promoting social cohesion takes time and requires continuous engagement with local communities to earn their trust and improve communications. Savings clubs can help fast-track this process. It is critical to follow saving clubs methodology but provide groups with some flexibility to make it their own. Having clubs set their own rules is also essential for building trust.