Amherst CIRCLE has developed a metaphor to express its philosophy, Making the road as we walk. This guiding metaphor captures the organic process behind building leaders and communities. If the road to leadership and empowerment is built by, with, and for the community, the ground on which it is laid will be firm becoming a solid foundation for community development.

Amherst CIRCLE employs a model of collective leadership with newcomer members who use highly participatory study circles to organize projects in their own communities. Using a problem-solving method involving repeated action and reflection, leaders collaborate on initiatives benefiting the larger community. Learning occurs through their shared vision and action of community building, as well as through an increased sense of responsibility, pride, and cultural identity.