The Model of Community Public Value Creation for Addressing Drug Problem in Vulnerable Areas: A Case Study of the Rim Khlong Lat Phrao 80 Community

Abstract

        This research aims to investigate the problems and extract lessons learned regarding drug proliferation and social vulnerability in the Lat Phrao 80 Canal Community, Bangkok. Additionally, it analyzes the potential and collaboration among the public, private, and civil sectors in creating public value and developing a scalable drug prevention model for other urban communities. Conducted under the activities of the Prevention and Solution on Drug Problem Knowledge Hub in Thailand (PSDP-Hub), the study employed a mixed-methods research design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 10 key informants and quantitative assessments from 312 activity participants.

        The findings reveal that drug problems in the area are inextricably linked to poverty, occupational instability, family vulnerability, and deteriorated urban environments, reflecting structural factors that facilitate drug distribution. Operational activities integrating cooperation among the government, business sector, and the community through proactive measures-such as user screening, career development, environmental improvement, and the creation of safe spaces-successfully enhanced trust and participation while reducing the incentive to enter the drug cycle. Participant satisfaction with these activities was at a very high level (𝑥̅ = 4.64, S.D. = 0.51), indicating that the initiatives appropriately addressed community needs and aligned with the local context. Furthermore, the research developed a prototype titled the “Shared Value Model for Community Well-being & Drug Prevention,” comprising five key components: community empowerment, new career creation, social immunity building, rehabilitation and opportunity restoration systems, and multilateral network support. This model demonstrates significant potential for concrete application and expansion across other urban community contexts in Bangkok.