This article outlines five principles for community development (primary level) programming to address violent and hateful extremism: focus on the local; strengthen capability; enhance inclusivity; foster connection; and monitor, evaluate, and learn. These principles were identified through a systematic review of programs for preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) facilitated by civil society organisations (CSOs). Findings from the systematic review are presented in this article to outline a framework, which is then examined in action—using an Indonesian community P/CVE program as an example—to assess the principles’ applicability and relevance in practice. The purpose of this article is to present a list of evidence-based practice principles to support design and evaluation of community development programming that seeks to address violent and hateful extremism. The article probes the question: Do these principles adequately serve their intended purpose (to support evidence-based design and evaluation) in the context of P/CVE initiatives? This inquiry is intended to enrich the dialogue among practitioners, policymakers, and scholars engaged in formulating and executing strategies to combat violent and hateful extremism. By anchoring its analysis in tangible community experiences and perspectives, the paper offers a pragmatic, evidence-informed framework for CSOs operating in the sphere of P/CVE, thereby contributing to both academic discourse and practical implementation strategies.