Neighborhood networks as infrastructuring: tales of diffuse infrastructuring from Rete Corvetto

Welfare systems are becoming more participatory. As a result, networks have emerged as fundamental coordination tools. Existing research overlooks neighborhood networks or studies them through frameworks that miss how they actually function. This paper explores neighborhood networks through an infrastructuring lens, showing their role as platforms for collaboration in local welfare contexts. The research is based on a 26-month qualitative study in Rete Corvetto (Corvetto Network) in Milan. The paper introduces the concept of diffuse infrastructuring participation. It describes the distributed socio- material processes through which network participants are enabled to create connections and collaborations without centralized coordination. These insights offer recommendations for Social and Participatory Design professionals engaged with neighborhood networks and enhance our understanding of collective action in local welfare systems.