Fostering Community Resilience Research Articles

Transforming Hospitality with Virtual Reality

The hospitality industry plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable community resilience. However, the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) technology to enhance this resilience within the hospitality sector remains underexplored. This study aims to bridge this research gap by investigating the applications of VR in the hospitality industry and its impact on sustainable community resilience. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving in-depth interviews with hospitality industry professionals and technology experts. Thematic analysis techniques were applied to analyze the data and identify key themes.The findings reveal that VR implementation in the hospitality sector has significant potential to enhance guest experiences, operational efficiency, and employee training. Notably, the study highlights VR's capacity to serve as a platform for promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism, thereby fostering community resilience. Furthermore, VR can be utilized to develop comprehensive training programs for individuals with specific needs, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity within the hospitality industry. This research underscores the importance of adopting VR technology in the hospitality sector to strengthen sustainable community resilience. The findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industry to develop innovative and sustainable strategies. By addressing the research gap, this study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on VR's role in promoting sustainable community resilience within the hospitality context.

Social Capital and Community Adaptation to the COVID-19 Pandemic (Empirical Evidence: Sambirejo Village, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia)

With the ever-increasing uncertainty of the impact of humans on the environment, the study of adaptive societal behavior has gained interest in seeking to actively limit disaster-related losses. Despite numerous studies on the role of social capital in Indonesian tourism, the extent to which community social capital adapts to social order changes due to events like the COVID-19 pandemic or earthquake shocks has not been thoroughly studied. This study explored the social capital of people in tourist village areas, specifically in Sambirejo Village, Indonesia, and how it supported collective action during the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance community resilience and in turn succeed as a tourist village. Sambirejo Village has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a decline in tourism visits and income, highlighting the importance of social capital in fostering resilience. The research utilized a quantitative approach, collecting data through a questionnaire and analyzing descriptive statistical results. The model construct was then built and tested using a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis. The SEM analysis revealed the crucial role of government and community initiatives in fostering community resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for well-placed policies to help communities increase their social capital and combat the pandemic effectively.

Navigating challenges and shaping futures through mental health nursing in the United Kingdom.

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Mental health nurses in the UK play a critical role in providing care, advocating for patients and navigating the complexities associated with mental health challenges. Acknowledging and supporting the efforts of mental health nurses is essential for advancing mental health care, promoting inclusivity and fostering community resilience amidst ongoing challenges within existing health care organisations. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Highlights the integral role of mental health nurses in the UK's health system as both care providers and advocates, underpinning the importance of addressing the growing demand for mental health services Introduces innovative digital tools like the 'Hub of Hope' and the potential of social prescribing as effective strategies for improving access to mental health care and support. Emphasises the need for enhanced support and recognition of mental health nurses to ensure the sustainable advancement of mental health services and the well-being of communities. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health nurses should integrate innovative digital tools like the 'Hub of Hope' into their practice to improve signposting and access to mental health resources for individuals in need. There is a critical need for ongoing education and support for mental health nurses within practice settings to maintain their well-being and enhance their ability to provide holistic care despite increasing clinical demands. Advocacy for increased investment in mental health resources and support for research activities lead by mental health nurses is essential to address current service gaps and promote the development of more effective interventions.

Fostering community resilience through the lived experience of terrorist incidents

PurposeUnderstanding community resilience and collective efficacy is essential in terrorist-ridden areas. This study aims to investigate the role of communities in fostering collective resilience in response to violent acts of terrorism. It utilizes social capital and collective efficacy theories to explore the complicated relationship between community resilience and self-efficacy in terrorist-ridden areas.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed an interpretive methodology and conducted thematic data analysis. It documented insights and lessons learned from the diverse perspectives of community stakeholders through semi-structured interviews with 21 participants residing in Quetta, Pakistan. Interviews took place in March and April 2023.FindingsThe study demonstrates that community resilience contributes significantly to violent acts of terrorism. After carefully going through data exploration, four intriguing themes appear. The first theme pertained to participants experiencing stress due to terrorism incidents, highlighting the frequency of such stressful events. The second theme examined the escalating backdrop of terrorism, which perpetually looms, prompting communities to fortify their resilience against this persistent threat. The third theme, community resilience during terrorist violence and active participation, revealing active participation in activities aimed at enhancing community quality of life. The fourth theme emphasized the challenges associated with community engagement in resilience-building efforts.Originality/valueThis study advances the understanding of community resilience in terrorist-ridden areas. In addition, it furthers discourse and provides ways for the implementation of strategies aimed at strengthening community resilience following terrorist incidents.

The Relevance of Gandhi for Social Work Education and Practice

Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophies of nonviolence (Ahimsa) and truth force (Satyagraha) offer profound insights for social work education and practice. This article explores the alignment between Gandhi’s core principles and the ethical frameworks, values, and methods in social work. It examines Gandhi’s emphasis on ethical living, community engagement, empowerment, nonviolent conflict resolution, and advocacy for social justice, highlighting their relevance to contemporary social work. By integrating Gandhi’s teachings into social work education, practitioners can enhance their ability to promote social justice, serve marginalized populations, and foster community resilience. The discussion includes practical applications and case studies, demonstrating the enduring impact of Gandhi’s legacy on social work.

Mitigating Climate Crisis: Integrating Climate Education into Educational System for Social Welfare Enhancement in Indonesia

Indonesia still faces two significant challenges: a climate education system and relatively low social welfare rates. To address these pressing concerns, this study examines the feasibility of utilizing climate education to enhance social welfare. The study proposes a comprehensive framework for climate education in Indonesia using quantitative and qualitative research methods designed to adapt to various contexts, including formal educational settings such as schools and universities, while still accessible to underprivileged communities. The findings highlight the significance of integrating climate and environmental education into the educational system to prepare future generations to address ecological challenges. The paper also discusses the impact of the climate crisis on social welfare conditions in Indonesia, particularly for vulnerable communities. It proposes strategies for implementing climate education to enhance social welfare. It emphasizes the need for interactive and action-oriented approaches to climate education, as well as the role of universities in promoting practical solutions and student leadership. The framework presented in the paper aims to equip future professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to drive innovation in sustainable technologies, shape responsible policy decisions, and foster community resilience.

The Influence of Religious Beliefs and Religious Practices on Social Cohesion in Modern Society in Indonesia

This research investigates the influence of religious beliefs and practices on social cohesion in modern Indonesian societies through a quantitative analysis. A sample of 175 respondents representing diverse religious communities participated in the study. The survey instrument utilized Likert scales to measure religious beliefs, practices, and various dimensions of social cohesion. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis was employed to analyze the data. The results revealed significant positive relationships between religious beliefs, practices, and social cohesion. Specifically, stronger religious beliefs were associated with higher levels of social cohesion, while active engagement in religious practices contributed to increased social cohesion. The findings highlight the integral role of religion in fostering community resilience and well-being. These insights have implications for policymakers, community leaders, and scholars seeking to promote social cohesion and interfaith harmony in diverse societies.

Walk With Me: reducing harm and confronting the toxic drug poisoning crisis in small British Columbia cities through community engaged research

In an era of escalating and intersectional crises, the toxic drug poisoning crisis stands out as a devastating and persistent phenomenon. Where we write from in British Columbia (BC), Canada, over 13,000 deaths have occurred in the eight years since the toxic drug poisoning crisis was declared a provincial health emergency. While many of these deaths have occurred in large urban centres, smaller rural communities in British Columbia are also grappling with the profound impacts of the toxic drug poisoning crisis and are struggling to provide adequate support for their vulnerable populations. In response to these challenges, the Walk With Me research project has emerged in the Comox Valley of Vancouver Island, BC, employing community-engaged methodologies grounded in pluralist knowledge production. Walk With Me seeks to understand the unique manifestations of the toxic drug poisoning crisis in small communities, identifying local harm reduction interventions that can foster community resilience, and aiming to catalyze sustainable change by amplifying the voices of those directly affected by the crisis to advocate for policy changes. This paper outlines the conceptual and methodological underpinnings of the Walk With Me project as a harm reduction initiative, which holds community partnerships and diverse ways of knowing at its heart. It presents the community-engaged research framework used by the project to address overlapping health and social crises, offering practical examples of its application in various research projects across sites and organizations. The paper concludes with a reflection on the impacts of Walk With Me to date, highlighting the lessons learned, challenges encountered, and opportunities for future research and action. Overall, this article captures the urgent need for community-engaged approaches to address the toxic drug poisoning crisis and other multidimensional crises facing society, particularly in smaller and rural communities, underscoring the potential for meaningful change through collaborative, grassroots efforts.

Temporary Urbanism as a Catalyst for Social Resilience: Insights from an Urban Living Lab Practice-Based Research

This research paper investigates the impact of Urban Living Labs (ULLs) on social resilience within urban communities, with a specific focus on the Multicultural City ChatterBox project in Portsmouth, the UK. Drawing on a rich body of literature and empirical data collected through ethnographic research methods, including interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, this study explores how participatory placemaking and co-creation activities foster community resilience. The ChatterBox project, a collaborative effort between the local community and researchers, led to the construction of a temporary timber pavilion in an underutilized urban space, serving as a vibrant hub for social interaction and engagement among diverse community groups. Our findings reveal that ULLs significantly contribute to enhancing social resilience by empowering communities, fostering a sense of belonging, and facilitating the development of social networks. Through the process of co-design and co-creation, participants not only gained a deeper understanding and ownership of their urban environment but also developed valuable skills and knowledge, thus strengthening their capacity to adapt to societal challenges. Furthermore, this study highlights the role of ULLs in bridging gaps between different community groups, thereby promoting inclusivity and social cohesion. The Multicultural City ChatterBox project exemplifies how ULL interventions can serve as catalysts for social innovation, offering flexible and adaptive solutions to urban challenges while simultaneously enriching the social fabric of cities. This paper contributes to the growing discourse on urban resilience, placemaking, and community-led urban development, providing valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community organizers seeking to foster resilient and vibrant urban communities.

An Intersection of Social Workers’ Practice in Community Resilience and Indigenous Support Systems in Kashmir

This qualitative study delves into the intersection of social workers’ practice in fostering community resilience and integrating indigenous support systems in Kashmir. Employing purposeful sampling, the objective is to explore these practices deeply. The results unveil two main themes with their sub-themes: firstly, the role of social workers in enhancing community resilience, and secondly, the integration of indigenous support systems. The findings highlight the pivotal role of social workers in facilitating conflict resolution practices, organizing cultural festivals, and initiating holistic well-being initiatives within Kashmiri communities. These strategies emerge as fundamental components in nurturing a resilient and adaptable community amidst challenging circumstances. The study concludes by underscoring the significance of these practices not only in fostering resilience within Kashmiri communities but also in offering valuable insights for informing social work practices globally. It emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation, community cohesion, and effective resilience-building strategies, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on social work interventions in diverse cultural contexts.

Promoting Ecosystem Conservation and Food Security through Sustainable Harvesting of Edible Caterpillars in Kanchibiya District, Zambia

Insects play a vital role in enhancing food security and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. This study focused on the identification of caterpillar harvesting practices in Zambia, particularly in Chief Kopa’s village, Kanchibiya District, Muchinga Province, where the caterpillars of Gynisa maja and Gonimbrasia belina play a crucial role in food security. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing face-to-face interviews and self-administered questionnaires to capture both qualitative and quantitative insights. Quantitative data, including caterpillar harvesting amounts and correlations with tree destruction, underwent statistical analyses, including ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey's HSD tests. The Chi-square test explored gender distribution across research sites. Qualitative data from open-ended questions during interviews underwent thematic analysis. The study sampled 100 respondents from six areas, and the results revealed significant differences in caterpillar harvesting amounts among villages. Post-hoc tests identified specific pairwise differences. The findings indicated that traditional harvesting methods persisted, with limited adherence to rules. A significant positive correlation was observed between caterpillar harvesting practices and evolving trends such as increased harvesting intensity, changes in harvesting methods, and environmental impact and tree destruction (p=0.001, r=0.917). The study contributed valuable insights into past caterpillar harvesting practices, proposing conservation strategies for enhanced food security and sustainability. The study proposes a multifaceted approach to balance ecosystem conservation with food security in Kanhaiya District, emphasizing the importance of sustainable caterpillar harvesting. Recommendations include developing community-based sustainable harvesting guidelines, such as rotational zones and harvest limits, alongside education programs to raise ecological awareness. It advocates for diversifying livelihoods and food sources to lessen dependence on caterpillars, ensuring gender-inclusive participation in these initiatives. Monitoring and further research are essential to adapt strategies effectively. These measures aim to preserve the ecosystem, ensuring the caterpillar's role in food security and offering socioeconomic benefits by fostering community resilience and reducing food insecurity vulnerabilities

Roundtable on International Responses to COVID-19: The Unfolding of Pandemic Advertising

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic not only reshaped societies globally but also significantly impacted the advertising landscape. This roundtable presents insights gleaned from a discussion among advertising practitioners, scholars, and industry observers from a handful of countries, shedding light on the nuanced ways advertising responded to the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, particularly in its early years. Drawing from diverse experiences across different regions, the discussion highlights advertising's multifaceted roles, ranging from reflecting cultural shifts to fostering community resilience and promoting public health initiatives. The panel delves into the various strategies advertisers employed, exploring themes of fear, responsibility, and solidarity that emerged amid the uncertainty of the pandemic. Through the eyes of industry experts, this article provides valuable reflections on the evolving role of advertising during times of crisis and the lessons learned for shaping future communication strategies. Many commercials from various countries illustrate this discussion.

Analyzing the Challenges and Opportunities in Raising Public Awareness About the Hazards of Natural Disasters Among Junior High School Students in Bandung Regency, Indonesia

Natural disasters pose a significant peril to the Indonesian community, especially the Bandung Regency. Due to the significant likelihood of calamities, it is crucial to enhance public consciousness, particularly among adolescents in junior high school, regarding the perils associated with natural catastrophes. The objective of this study is to examine the obstacles and possibilities of enhancing knowledge of natural disaster risks among middle school students in Bandung Regency. This study employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing a case study technique. The researchers gathered primary data by conducting interviews with junior high school students, instructors, and relevant stakeholders, in addition to making field observations. The research findings indicate that there are multiple obstacles to enhancing the level of awareness among junior high school students regarding the perils associated with natural disasters. These challenges encompass a deficiency in knowledge and comprehension concerning the hazards posed by natural disasters, limited availability of information and educational resources pertaining to disasters, indifference and a lack of concern towards natural disasters, as well as a dearth of proactive involvement from both educational institutions and parents. Nevertheless, this study has identified various avenues for enhancing the knowledge of junior high school students regarding the perils associated with natural calamities. These include incorporating disaster education into the school syllabus, employing information and communication technology (ICT) to disseminate information and educate about disasters, engaging students in simulation exercises and disaster response activities, and reinforcing the involvement of families and communities in fostering a culture of disaster awareness. Enhancing the knowledge and understanding of the potential hazards associated with natural disasters among junior high school students is a crucial measure to foster community resilience in the face of future calamities.

AN INITIAL ASSESSMENT OF FAO’s INTERVENTION TO EMPOWER VULNERABLE YOUTH FOR BUILDING PEACE AND STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE IN KENEMA DISTRICT, SIERRA LEONE

This paper presents an initial assessment of youth vulnerability to violence and crime, and the Food and Agricultural Organization's intervention in empowering them as agents of peacebuilding and fostering community resilience in Kenema District, Eastern Province of Sierra Leone. Given the high susceptibility of at-risk youth to violence and crime, their empowerment is crucial for peace and security in Sierra Leone. The study employed qualitative methods, including desk review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with stakeholders in visited communities. Despite some challenges, such as procurement delays, the FAO's contribution proved relevant, effective, and impactful. Through training, skills development, decision-making strategies, and provision of agricultural tools, equipment, and mentorship, young men and women were empowered to enhance social cohesion, contribute to peace building, and bolster community resilience. The paper also highlights FAO's role in facilitating the reintegration of at-risk youth into their families and communities, aiding their transition to adulthood. Despite challenges, the project aligned with national and local priorities, effectively reduced rural crime and violence, and empowered youth to participate in decision-making processes, promote social cohesion, and support community resilience initiatives.

Building a Meaningful Bridge Between Indigenous and Western Worldviews: Through Decolonial Conversation

In this paper, Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars used a decolonial conversation framework to build a meaningful bridge between Indigenous and Western worldviews. Our decolonial conversations approach is a unique and transformative space where Indigenous and Western knowledge systems intersect, facilitating a rich exchange of valuable insights for fostering intercultural dialogue and breathing new ways of knowing and acting into Indigenous cultures. The decolonial conversation provides a platform for transmitting Indigenous knowledge and cultural practices across generations by uniting Indigenous land-based knowledge, community members, and Western researchers. Integrating Indigenous and Western knowledge systems in these environments fosters collaboration, dispels stereotypes, and forges partnerships grounded in reciprocity and trust. Through this collaborative process, traditional cultural camps emerge as potent catalysts for instilling cultural pride, fostering community resilience, and co-creating knowledge. This collaborative approach aligns with the broader objectives of decolonization and cultural revitalization. In our exploration following the decolonial learning conversation, we, comprising an Indigenous woman land-based educator and a racialized academic scholar, focused on the transformative potential and synergies realized by integrating these knowledge systems within the context of traditional cultural camps.

A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of Fishermen about the Climate Change in Panabo City

Climate change has emerged as a crucial worldwide concern affecting a wide range of sectors, and coastal communities in particular face special challenges due to their reliance on marine resources. The purpose of this phenomenological study is to investigate the lived experiences of fishermen in Panabo City, a coastal town in the Philippines, with regard to the consequences of climate change on their livelihoods and way of life. The study investigates fishermen’s resilience and efforts to seek other livelihood options in the face of climate uncertainty. Participants emphasize the importance of better assistance and interventions from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders in order to develop adaptive capacity and foster community resilience. Six participants were interviewed in depth, and the data was recorded. Thematic analysis was employed in analyzing the data. The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for increased environmental awareness among fishermen in Panabo City. This study contributes to the broader discourse on climate resilience and community adaptation in coastal regions by examining fishermen’s lived experiences in the context of climate change.

Integrating Climate Education for Social Welfare Enhancement in Indonesia

Indonesia still faces two significant challenges: a climate education system and relatively low social welfare rates. To address these pressing concerns, this study examines the feasibility of utilizing climate education to enhance social welfare. The study proposes a comprehensive framework for climate education in Indonesia using quantitative and qualitative research methods designed to adapt to various contexts, including formal educational settings such as schools and universities, while still accessible to underprivileged communities. The findings highlight the significance of integrating climate and environmental education into the educational system to prepare future generations to address ecological challenges. The paper also discusses the impact of the climate crisis on social welfare conditions in Indonesia, particularly for vulnerable communities. It proposes strategies for implementing climate education to enhance social welfare. It emphasizes the need for interactive and action-oriented approaches to climate education, as well as the role of universities in promoting practical solutions and student leadership. The framework presented in the paper aims to equip future professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to drive innovation in sustainable technologies, shape responsible policy decisions, and foster community resilience

THE RESILIENCE OF MALAY SILVER CRAFT DESIGN: SUSTAINING CULTURAL HERITAGE AND PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIALIZATION

This research paper investigates the traditional Malay silver craft that has existed for two centuries, reflecting the community's culture and heritage. The Srivijaya Kingdom and British colonial rule historically influenced this Malay culture's silver craft, encapsulating beliefs, dreams, and resilience. Originating in Kelantan, Malaysia, the Malay silver craft industry flourished, but recent studies reveal its decline and potential extinction. This paper's primary objective is to comprehensively identify and propose strategies for integrating sustainable practices of silver craft, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on sustainable industrialization and cultural heritage preservation. The research seeks to preserve and revitalize the craft industry for community benefit, emphasizing its socio-economic impact, potential for job creation, income generation, tourism, and intangible heritage preservation. The paper conducts a literature review, visual research, and focus group discussions employing anthropology, art history, and community development. This research emphasizes the importance of sustaining cultural heritage, fostering community resilience, and empowerment. Influenced by their cultural beliefs, environment, looking at nature, and the natural world, the fine silver craft undergoes artistic expression, subsequently fostering social cohesion and interaction. Following the quadruple helix concept, the Malay silver craft industry revival engaged through collaboration among local artisans, government agencies, community organizations, and academicians. By utilizing thematic analysis based on focus group discussion, this research thoroughly analyses the sustainability of the Malay silver craft domain, interpreting key thematic codes that underpin its ecological and socio-cultural significance within the framework of local craft in Malaysia.

Public Library Programming and Events for Overcoming Social Divisions

Abstract Increasing and persistent social divisions are a global challenge that threaten the stability of our societies and soundness of our democracies. Public libraries can potentially play an ameliorative role in reducing these divisions. Qualitative data analysis of Oslo’s public library system’s (Deichman) programming and events is used to understand how libraries are addressing social divisions in their communities. The findings suggest that a variety of events organized by Deichman directly contribute to overcoming social divisions, especially those related to economic inequalities, sociocultural factors, and the unequal access to digital technologies. Deichman also appears to contribute to overcoming social divisions indirectly through its programing and events related to more traditional library services. The study concludes that Deichman may be a significant player in addressing social divisions. Lastly, the study provides important insights into the role of libraries as social arenas and their ability to foster community resilience, tolerance, and democracy.

After the Disaster Guidebook: Designing a Post-Disaster Communication Intervention for Rural Landowners

Extension is well-positioned to facilitate communication strategies that foster community resilience and disaster recovery, particularly for rural residents. This paper proposes a new approach to post-disaster communication that strengthens rural community capacities in locally and culturally relevant ways. The findings revealed specific post-disaster information needs, preferences for local resources, and communication that encourages resilience through a document analysis and interviews with informants recovering from the 2020 Colorado wildfires. The practical recommendations discussed serve as a starting point for Extension professionals in other areas to consider ways to engage with their communities before, during, and after a disaster.