Strong Community Research Articles

AMS Early Career Leadership Academy: From Idea to Reality to Evolution

Abstract The aim of the Early Career Leadership Academy (ECLA; established in 2017) is to improve the retention rates of women; people of color; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+); and people with disabilities in the atmospheric sciences and related fields by cultivating leadership, providing mentorship, and fostering a strong community of supportive peers and collaborators. Since 2017, five classes have completed the program, with the class composition spanning professional sectors and personal identities. Approximately 70% of ECLA participants were identified as women, people of color, LGBTQ+, and/or people with disabilities. Nearly half of all graduates have filled leadership positions within the American Meteorological Society (AMS), with a majority reporting that their first leadership position was not held until after completion of ECLA. A benefit of leadership training that spans across sectors includes the realization that despite different day-to-day responsibilities, many of the challenges faced by early career professionals related to extreme weather, climate change, and diversity and inclusion are similar across workplaces. ECLA is organized by AMS volunteers who created a program based on adaptive leadership principles. Given the diversity of professional backgrounds and lived experiences, the programmatic design of ECLA is also built upon each class’s professional development needs. Many of the topics are fundamental to leading effective, diverse teams, yet are rarely covered in traditional academic preparation. Recommendations and a list of actionable strategies are provided to help ensure that early career professionals will continue to be agents of positive change in the weather, water, and climate enterprise and beyond.

Exploring the mediating role of teacher identity between professional learning community and teacher resilience: evidence from Eastern China

Promoting teachers’ long-term professional growth is a critical problem in teacher education. Professional learning communities have a long-term, positive impact on teacher development, while teacher resilience gives drive for long-term improvement. However, little research indicates how professional groups indirectly affect teacher resilience through their identity, which has consequences for long-term teacher development. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, a recent survey of 2815 primary and secondary school teachers in East China discovered that professional learning communities strongly predict the formation of teacher resilience. This study explores the relationship between professional learning community and teacher resilience by establishing a multi-mediating model, and confirms the mediating role of each dimension of teacher identity. Based on these results, facilitating sustainable professional development requires constructing strong professional learning communities, nurturing teacher identity, and enhancing positive emotions and resilience. Further research should explore how specific activities within communities and forms of teacher support develop resilience over time while accounting for contextual factors. Investigating mechanisms underlying the relationships between communities, identity, emotions, and sustained growth can inform policies and programs aiming to promote long-lasting teacher development.

Care-seeking pathways and treatment practices for snakebite in Odisha, India

PurposeSnakebites represent a pressing global public health concern, with India shouldering a disproportionate burden and often dubbed the "snakebite capital." Traditional and spiritual healing methods prevail in India, yet their efficacy and potential adverse health consequences warrant investigation. This study seeks to elucidate the perspectives of healthcare providers and caretakers regarding snakebite treatment practices, with a specific emphasis on traditional healing modalities.MethodsAn exploratory study was conducted among ten healthcare providers–five traditional and five modern treatment providers, two snake trappers/catchers and 120 snakebite victims or their caretakers across three districts of Odisha, India. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using content analysis.ResultsThe analysis revealed five main categories: various snakebite treatment practices, care-seeking pathways of victims, perspectives of patients and caretakers on treatment, traditional healers’ views on modern treatment, and allopathic doctors’ views on traditional treatment. Treatment practices observed included allopathic treatment, cold treatment, spiritual healing practices at temples, brass plate treatment, mantra enchanting, herbal treatment, and self-medication. Reasons for treatment delay included strong community beliefs in traditional healing, lack of control over irrational treatment by traditional healers, suboptimal care at primary and secondary healthcare facilities, and poor community literacy on snakebites.ConclusionsThe study emphasizes the need for improved snakebite preparedness strategies, community literacy, active involvement in prevention programs, and strong political commitment to control irrational treatment practices.

The Social Economy and Contemporary Challenges: Innovation and Sustainability

This article explores the relevance of the social economy in addressing contemporary challenges through innovative and sustainable practices, supported by public policies. The research investigates the management models that social and solidarity economy organizations (SSEOs) employ to respond to the challenges of innovation and sustainability. The study includes an in-depth analysis of diverse operational models and accomplishments across various cases, presenting evidence on how the sector adopts innovative and sustainable practices. The article scrutinizes essential characteristics of SSEOs, such as democratic governance, reinvestment of surpluses in social businesses based on innovation and entrepreneurship, and a strong community orientation. These characteristics are examined for their relevance in addressing issues like social inequalities, digital transformation, and climate change. Additionally, the research includes an examination of four diverse cases of SSEOs established in mainland Portugal. It reveals the wide range of activities and significant interactions that these organizations have with various stakeholders in different economic and social contexts, contributing to regional social innovation ecosystems. The empirical study, based on a descriptive case study methodology applied to multiple and heterogeneous cases (in terms of fields of intervention and scale of resources), demonstrates that sustainability has become a driver in the social economy, within a framework of democratic governance and community involvement. Moreover, the research fills a gap in empirical literature by providing strong evidence through real cases of collaborative social innovation, the integration of environmental, social, and governance practices, as well as financial and regulatory support from the state for the resilience of SSEOs. The social value of the research lies in its empirical contribution to demonstrating how social business is a crucial element for communities to address global challenges, promoting economic growth and employment, social justice, including the fight against poverty, and environmental sustainability.

Connect, collaborate and tailor: a model of community engagement through infographic design during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundAcross the globe, racial and ethnic minorities have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 with increased risk of infection and burden from disease. Vaccine hesitancy has contributed to variation in vaccine uptake and compromised population-based vaccination programs in many countries. Connect, Collaborate and Tailor (CCT) is a Public Health Agency of Canada funded project to make new connections between public health, healthcare professionals and underserved communities in order to create culturally adapted communication about COVID-19 vaccines. This paper describes the CCT process and outcomes as a community engagement model that identified information gaps and created tailored tools to address misinformation and improve vaccine acceptance.MethodsSemi-structured interviews with CCT participants were undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of CCT in identifying and addressing topics of concern to underserved and ethnic minority communities. Interviews also explored CCT participants’ experiences of collaboration through the development of new partnerships between ethnic minority communities, public health and academic researchers, and the evolution of co-operation sharing ideas and creating infographics. Thematic analysis was used to produce representative themes. The activities described were aligned with the levels of public engagement described in the IAP2 spectrum (International Association for Public Participation).ResultsAnalysis of interviews (n = 14) revealed that shared purpose and urgency in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic motivated co-operation among CCT participants. Acknowledgement of past harm, present health, and impact of social inequities on public service access was an essential first step in establishing trust. Creating safe spaces for open dialogue led to successful, iterative cycles of consultation and feedback between participants; a process that not only helped create tailored infographics but also deepened engagement and collaboration. Over time, the infographic material development was increasingly directed by community representatives’ commentary on their groups’ real-time needs and communication preferences. This feedback noticeably guided the choice, style, and presentation of infographic content while also directing dissemination strategies and vaccine confidence building activities.ConclusionsThe CCT process to create COVID-19 vaccine communication materials led to evolving co-operation between groups who had not routinely worked together before; strong community engagement was a key driver of change. Ensuring a respectful environment for open dialogue and visibly using feedback to create information products provided a foundation for building relationships. Finally, our data indicate participants sought reinforcement of close cooperative ties and continued investment in shared responsibility for community partnership-based public health.

Developing peace leadership: lessons from the peace practice alliance

ABSTRACT In 2020, Euphrates Institute piloted the Peace Practice Alliance (PPA), a virtual six-month program that brings together an international cohort of peacebuilders to learn peace leadership theories and develop related skills and practices. The program framework is based on integral peace leadership, which focuses on four interrelated areas of Innerwork, Knowledge, Community, and Environment. As part of an emergent field, limited research has documented the application of integral peace leadership in peacebuilder training and development programs. This paper, therefore, examines the pilot PPA program to understand the ways in which an online, global peace leadership training program can support the development of community peace leaders. Findings from interviews with 14 of the program’s first cohort of 18 peace leaders revealed that the PPA supported their development through the content of the curriculum, the creation of a strong learning community, and the dual focus on theory and practice. This paper concludes with suggestions for further improvement, including additional spaces for participant interaction and experiential learning and the creation of further training and development opportunities.

Legal frameworks for sustainable tourism: balancing environmental conservation and economic development

ABSTRACT Tourism is a vital part of the global economy but often imposes significant environmental pressure, necessitating robust legal frameworks for sustainability. This study explores the role of environmental law in promoting sustainable tourism, motivated by the need to assess the effectiveness of existing regulations. It hypothesises that while numerous international and national laws exist to mitigate tourism's environmental impacts, their effectiveness is often hindered by enforcement challenges and socio-economic factors. Using a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review and case studies, the research highlights the dual nature of tourism’s impact, showing economic benefits alongside environmental costs. Case studies from Egypt, UAE, and KSA illustrate successful sustainable practices when strong legal frameworks and community involvement are present. The study concludes that a combination of regulatory measures, economic incentives, and public-private partnerships is crucial for sustainable tourism, recommending enhanced enforcement and global cooperation.

Perceptions of Violent Crime Among a Sample of Bronx College Students: Results From Focus Groups

Purpose:This study sought to understand how a convenient sample of college students between the ages of 20 and 35 years of age in the Bronx perceive and experience violent crime (VC). The focus of the study is on perceptions of risk and an exploration of crime prevention strategies.Methods:This project conducted two online focus groups with a sample of 24 young adults residing in the Bronx, NY, enrolled at the higher education institution in Spring 2021 and Fall 2022. The main research questions are the following: (a) How do young adults in the Bronx perceive and better understand VC risk? (b) What are the young people’s proposals or ideas to develop prevention strategies to address VC in the Bronx? The focus groups were held online using Zoom and Mentimeter.Results:Study participants expressed concerns about feeling unheard and feeling of a constant threat to their safety. They expressed a lack of trust for the existing political and social programs and did not express strong community ties and community engagement. This research suggests a promise of using spatial research to engage young adults in the Bronx in VC prevention and advocacy programs.Conclusions:Overall, this study found an active voice in young adults when discussing VC. Participants expressed a need for community dialogue and action to address the increasing trend of VC in the Bronx.

Staircase model for community involvement in community-oriented/based medical education: Steps to achieve CO/CBME

Problem: For institutions to successfully implement a community-oriented/based education strategy, it is necessary to have full support from the community. Without such support, there may not be sufficient foundation to train students within the community, or to orient curricula to address community health needs and priority problems. Building mutual trust between communities and academia takes time and effort. Some educators think it is easy to "enter" the community and send students for training. Approach: It is essential to approach this education strategy with compassion and empathy. Careful planning and adequate time allocation are crucial to engage communities at different levels. Communities are often apprehensive, but they can be highly responsive when treated with respect and their requests given consideration. To ensure a successful engagement with local communities, it is imperative to consider their perspective and tailor the engagement process to suit their unique needs and expectations. Failure to do so may result in negative consequences, which could jeopardize the success of the initiative. Outcomes: This article outlines a staircase model for medical schools to effectively engage their local community and progress towards achieving community partnership followed by weaning. The model is innovative and aligns with the social accountability principles set forth by the World Health Organization. Building a strong community–university partnership requires careful planning and implementation of various components. Next Steps: By considering all factors, we can build a sustainable, collaborative partnership that benefits both the community and the university with tremendous relief from the burden on the local government.

Peran Masyarakat Desa Rejosari dalam Mencegah Stunting pada Anak

Stunting is a long-term nutritional problem that severely affects children's physical growth and cognitive development. To address stunting, Rejosari Village has developed various community-based initiatives. The purpose of this study is to find out how the Rejosari Village community functions to prevent stunting in children by using cooperation and participation strategies. Socialization of stunting, nutrition counseling for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, routine monitoring of pregnant women's health, and provision of supplementary food for children under five are some of the programs in which the community is actively involved. Village health cadres also play an important role in supporting the implementation of these programs by providing direct instruction and guidance to residents. A qualitative case study was conducted to collect data through field observations and interviews. The results showed that community involvement not only increased awareness of the importance of preventing stunting but also increased active participation in maintaining the health and nutrition of children in Rejosari Village. The village experienced a decrease in stunting rates due to strong community participation, which was supported by the village government and non-governmental organizations. The results suggest that the community-based intervention model used in Rejosari Village can be adapted and applied in other villages facing similar problems in preventing stunting.

Housing inequality and psychological resilience among youth Chinese during a pandemic: The influence of community resilience and governance efficacy

BackgroundResearch on the impact of residential inequality on individual mental health has highlighted community differences, and it is worth investigating whether pandemics exacerbate the mental health issues caused by this inequality. By introducing a community resilience measurement model from crisis management, this paper refines the measurement of community differences, focusing on whether the global COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the mental health disparities caused by residential inequality at the community level. MethodsThis study employed the Conjoint Community Resilience Assessment Measure-10 (CCRAM-10) and used Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze 4469 questionnaires collected during the pandemic from 31 provinces in China. The subjects were young people under the age of 35 living in various communities. ResultsUsing the community resilience measurement model, the results revealed that there is inequality in community resilience and its support for individual psychological resilience among Chinese communities. SEM results indicated that both the direct impact of community resilience perception and the mediating role of governance efficacy significantly enhanced the psychological resilience of residents. In the subgroup analysis, the direct effect of community resilience was most significant in commercial housing communities. The indirect effect of governance efficacy was strongest in older urban communities. ConclusionCommercial housing communities effectively supported individual psychological resilience through their strong community resilience. Rural communities and urban villages in China highlighted the vulnerability of residential inequality during the pandemic. The government should improve public services and community participation in these areas to better address the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The Impact of Socio-Economic Factors on Maternal Health in Rural Africa

Maternal health was a critical indicator of societal well-being, reflecting the quality of healthcare systems and socio-economic conditions. In rural Africa, maternal health outcomes were alarmingly poor, with high maternal mortality rates persisting despite global efforts. This review explored the impact of socio-economic factors on maternal health in rural Africa, focusing on economic barriers, educational attainment, gender inequality, access to healthcare services, and social support networks. Economic barriers such as poverty and healthcare costs significantly limit access to essential maternal care. Educational attainment influences health literacy and the utilization of maternal healthcare services, with higher education levels correlating with better health outcomes. Gender inequality and entrenched cultural norms restrict women’s autonomy and decision-making power, negatively affecting maternal health. Access to healthcare services in rural areas is severely constrained by geographic isolation, inadequate infrastructure, and resource limitations. Social support networks, including family, friends, community members, and traditional birth attendants, play a crucial role in maternal health by providing emotional, informational, and practical support. This review used a comprehensive analysis of existing literature to discuss these factors and propose solutions to improve maternal health outcomes in rural Africa. Strategies such as financial assistance programs, expanding educational opportunities, empowering women, improving healthcare infrastructure, and strengthening social support networks are essential for addressing these challenges. By implementing these targeted interventions, significant improvements in maternal health can be achieved, leading to healthier mothers and stronger communities in rural Africa. Keywords: Maternal Health, Socio-Economic Factors, Rural Africa, Gender Inequality, Healthcare Access.

Beyond the Idyll: Unveiling the realities of risk perception and neighborhood influence on rural in-migrants in the COVID-19 Era in Dali, China

While the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified counter-urban migration trends globally, with rural areas often portrayed as ideal havens, the post-migration realities and risks faced by rural in-migrants remain understudied. Addressing this research gap, this research investigates the neighborhood factors influencing risk perceptions of rural in-migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on four rural destinations in Dali, China. Using a mixed-method approach combining questionnaires, participatory mapping, and regression analysis, we surveyed 234 rural migrants. Our study incorporates objective measurements of neighborhood environments through Participatory GIS. Findings reveal that reduced life quality and economic income are the main perceived risks among rural in-migrants during the pandemic. Neighborhood factors significantly mitigating perceived risks include green spaces, accessible living services, government satisfaction, and strong local community networks. The study also identifies varying vulnerability levels among migrant groups, with migrant workers showing higher risk perceptions than entrepreneurs or unemployed individuals. This research addresses a critical gap in migration studies by examining post-relocation risks faced by rural in-migrants, especially during global crises. It provides empirical evidence on the role of neighborhood environments in mitigating migrants' risk perceptions, offering insights for enhancing rural community resilience. The findings contribute to our understanding of rural in-migration dynamics in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, informing strategies for sustainable rural development and migrant integration in the face of future crises.

P041 COMMUNITY-BASED STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE HEALTH-RELATED OUTCOMES IN PEOPLE LIVING WITH HYPERTENSION IN LOW MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Background and objective: Hypertension affects one billion people globally and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Currently, it is estimated that high blood pressure (BP) is related to the deaths of more than 10 million people every year. Interventions to mitigate the looming hypertension crisis in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) need strong community involvement whilst concurrently addressing access to care and quality of care issues. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate community-level interventions to improve hypertension control among patients living in LMICs. Methods: Nine databases were searched (July 22, 2023) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster randomized control trials (cRCTs) implementing community-level interventions in adults with hypertension in LMICs. Studies were included based on an explicit focus on BP control. Quality assessment was done using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (ROBS 2). Results were presented following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Fixed-effect meta-analysis were conducted for studies that reported continuous outcome measures. Results: We identified and screened 7125 articles. Eighteen studies were included in the analysis, 7 RCTs and 11 cRCTs. The overall summary effect of BP control from the meta-analysis was significant, risk ratio = 1.48 (95%CI = 1.40–1.57, n=12). For the RCTs risk ratio was 1.68 (95%CI = 1.40–2.01, n=5), and for the cRCTs 1.46 (95% CI = 1.32 – 1.61, n=7). For studies that reported on the individual components of the composite interventions, the risk ratio was 1.27 (95%CI = 1.04–1.54, n=3). Conclusions: Community-based strategies are relevant in addressing the burden of hypertension in LMICs. Community-based interventions can help decentralize hypertension care in LMIC and address the access to care gap without diminishing the quality of hypertension control.

Ethnophysics of Klepon: Exploring Physics Concepts in Traditional Pasuruan Snack

Local wisdom plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and embedding scientific knowledge within traditional practices. This study explores the physics concepts inherent in the traditional process of making Klepon, a local snack from Pasuruan, and examines the community's response to this cultural practice. Using a qualitative descriptive research method, the study gathered in-depth data to uncover the underlying physical principles and societal perceptions. The findings reveal that making traditional Klepon involves key physics concepts such as pressure, phase changes, temperature, heat, and Archimedes' principle. Additionally, the research indicates the positive reception of these traditional snacks by the local community and consumers. The study concludes that the preparation of Klepon embodies significant physics concepts and that there is strong community support for the preservation and continued development of this cultural heritage.

Strengthening Community Capacity Through Tsunami Education Programs in the Mangrove Community of Kebumen

Coastal communities, such as the Mangrove Community of Kebumen, face significant risks from tsunamis due to their geographical location. This community service initiative aimed to enhance tsunami disaster preparedness through education and mangrove conservation. The objectives were to improve community knowledge on tsunami mitigation and to empower locals in mangrove planting and maintenance practices. The methodology involved a structured program conducted at Pantai Sawangan, Desa Puring, involving 30 participants from the mangrove community and local residents. The activities included pre-tests, educational sessions on tsunami mitigation and mangrove conservation, and post-tests to evaluate knowledge retention. Expert-led discussions highlighted the role of mangroves as natural barriers against tsunamis. Results showed a significant increase in participants' understanding of tsunami risks and mitigation strategies post-training. Participants actively engaged in practical sessions, demonstrating enhanced skills in mangrove planting and maintenance. Feedback indicated strong community support and a desire for continued educational initiatives. In conclusion, the program effectively improved community resilience through enhanced knowledge and practical skills in disaster preparedness and mangrove conservation. Continued socialization and educational programs are recommended to sustain community involvement and deepen understanding of disaster mitigation across diverse societal groups, ensuring long-term resilience against coastal hazards.

Time-series sewage metagenomics distinguishes seasonal, human-derived and environmental microbial communities potentially allowing source-attributed surveillance

Sewage metagenomics has risen to prominence in urban population surveillance of pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Unknown species with similarity to known genomes cause database bias in reference-based metagenomics. To improve surveillance, we seek to recover sewage genomes and develop a quantification and correlation workflow for these genomes and AMR over time. We use longitudinal sewage sampling in seven treatment plants from five major European cities to explore the utility of catch-all sequencing of these population-level samples. Using metagenomic assembly methods, we recover 2332 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from prokaryotic species, 1334 of which were previously undescribed. These genomes account for ~69% of sequenced DNA and provide insight into sewage microbial dynamics. Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Copenhagen (Denmark) show strong seasonal microbial community shifts, while Bologna, Rome, (Italy) and Budapest (Hungary) have occasional blooms of Pseudomonas-dominated communities, accounting for up to ~95% of sample DNA. Seasonal shifts and blooms present challenges for effective sewage surveillance. We find that bacteria of known shared origin, like human gut microbiota, form communities, suggesting the potential for source-attributing novel species and their ARGs through network community analysis. This could significantly improve AMR tracking in urban environments.

Mental health disparities among first generation immigrants to the US

Mental health disparities among first-generation immigrants to the United States are intricately linked to the historical and sociopolitical context of immigration. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 and policies such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) have shaped the demographic and experiential landscape of first-generation immigrants, influencing their mental health outcomes. Objective: This study aims to examine the mental health disparities experienced by first-generation immigrants in the United States, identifying the contributing factors and exploring effective strategies for addressing these disparities. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies on mental health outcomes among first-generation immigrants. The review focused on factors contributing to mental health disparities, including pre-migration experiences, migration-related stressors, post-migration challenges, and systemic barriers to mental health care access. The review also explored intersectionality and its impact on mental health, as well as case studies and examples of successful interventions. Results: The "immigrant paradox" suggests that immigrants often exhibit better mental health outcomes than native-born individuals, though this effect diminishes over time. Factors such as strong family ties and community support initially contribute to this mental health advantage. However, post-migration challenges, including acculturation stress, socioeconomic hardship, and discrimination, often lead to a decline in mental health. Certain mental health conditions, such as PTSD and anxiety disorders, are more prevalent among specific immigrant groups, particularly those fleeing conflict or persecution. Structural, cultural, and systemic barriers hinder access to mental health care, exacerbating disparities. Successful interventions often involve community-based approaches, culturally competent care, and integrated service models. Conclusion: Addressing mental health disparities among first-generation immigrants requires a multifaceted approach, including community engagement, policy interventions, and culturally competent care. By investing in research and implementing evidence-based interventions, it is possible to reduce mental health disparities and improve outcomes for first-generation immigrants. Future research should focus on long-term mental health trajectories, the impact of digital technologies, and the role of social networks.

“I Figured It Might Be Because We Are Rural”: A Qualitative Study of Barriers and Opportunities Related to Home-Based Personal Assistance Services

Personal care assistance (PCA) provides vital support so rural disabled people and older adults can live in their communities. Currently, the state of home and community-based services in the United States is dire, with major shortfalls in access and utilization of these services. Moreover, little is known about the experiences of people living in rural areas who need paid, in-home assistance with activities of daily living. Because rural areas are often underserved and under-resourced, this study aimed to understand the experiences of rural users of personal care assistance services to inform the development of a training for rural people. Between February and November of 2021, 38 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 self-identified rural-dwelling people across the United States who use paid PCAs. Interview topics included finding, hiring, and training workers; worker qualities; and how living in a rural place impacted PCA services. Using thematic coding, results highlight how rurality intersected with participants’ daily experiences. Respondents identified 3 barriers to getting PCA services: (1) lack of transportation and travel distance, (2) worker shortages, and (3) fewer local community services; and one facilitator of obtaining PCA services: strong community connection. Additionally, some aspects of rural culture—such as valuing a slower pace of life, independence, and rugged individualism—presented both barriers and opportunities for rural PCA recipients. As the home care worker shortage crisis in the United States is expected to worsen in coming decades, rural people needing PCA services face unique circumstances related to place and culture.

Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Desa Pasar Ngalam melalui Program Kuliah Kerja Nyata Berbasis Masjid

This study aims to analyze the implementation of a mosque-based community service program (KKN) in empowering rural communities. The research used a qualitative descriptive approach through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show that the mosque-based KKN program has succeeded in empowering the community through various religious, educational, and socio-economic activities centered around the mosque. Key programs included Quran education for children, religious lectures, youth empowerment through mosque youth groups, and economic empowerment through mosque cooperatives. Challenges faced included limited participation from some community members and sustainability of programs after KKN ended. This study concludes that mosque-based KKN can be an effective model for holistic community empowerment when implemented with strong community engagement and follow-up plans.