Labor migration along the Dominican-Haitian border is a complex adaptive system (CAS) that affects the development and quality of life for residents in both nations. The current system of agrarian community economic development along the Dominican-Haiti border region is designed to encourage labor migration but does not address economic opportunity in the area. An ideal model would disincentivize labor migration by improving economic opportunity and living conditions in the area, so the region could compete with external opportunities. This analysis explores the gaps in current approaches. I examine how hierarchical, top-down dynamics result in one-way communication, layered relationships and trickle-down conformity. Using the human ecological model, I discuss the layers of actors in collective action and how power and communication prioritize certain agendas. I find that to better support economic development through job training in the border region, programs need to promote lateral leadership, equal value relationships, and utilizing a rubric that supports collective action.