MAP Information Sheet

MAP

Three people have a discussion. A large pencil draws a path across a lake and into a mountain. The pencil has a large red eraser on the top. The sun is rising behind the mountain. A koru encapsulates the scene.
Graphic and description of the MAP planning process.
A person on a park bench has a conversation with a person in a wheelchair. Another person flags down a bus. People read in a library. Others walk on a hill in the background.

People lead more fulfilling lives when they share their skills and talents with others, and communities are richer when everyone contributes.

MAP is a planning process which finds the gifts and strengths you (the MAPmaker) can offer your community.

A facilitator interacts with group participants while an illustrator draws their ideas on a large sheet of paper.

MAP helps you

  • identify your gifts and strengths

  • dream about your best life

  • decide on some action steps to move forward using your gifts and strengths

The MAP process:

  • You choose a time and place to meet where you are comfortable, confident and relaxed.

  • You invite trusted supporters (e.g. whaanau, friends, support staff) to a planning session. The process usually takes about four hours, and it is important participants are not rushed.

  • At the session, an Interactionz process facilitator talks with you and your supporters. You are encouraged to dream and share your dreams for your life – without judgement. This gives an insight into what is meaningful to you.

  • Supporters might be asked for their input too, but the plan is yours.

  • An Interactionz graphic facilitator records the information shared in colourful drawings and keywords on a large sheet of paper.

There are six steps:

  1. Remembering times which teach you about your gifts and strengths

  2. Dreaming about your good life – if anything is possible

  3. Recognising the ‘nightmare’ – the life you want to avoid

  4. Identifying your gifts and strengths

  5. Understanding what it takes for your contribution to be received by the community

  6. Deciding on some action steps to move forward

At the end of the process, you can take your poster home and pin it to the wall to remind you of the planning process and the goals you have set yourself.

If the MAP process doesn’t meet your needs, talk to us about other planning tools we offer. We can even design a process with you.

Once you have made your plan, Interactionz can provide mentors to help you achieve your goals. Some people are eligible for mentor funding.

The MAP Process was created by Jack Pearpoint, Marsha Forest and John O’Brien.