GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF ENTERPRISES FOR SOCIETY AND COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITY WITH PARTICIPATION BY PEOPLE OF ALL AGE INTERVALS IN BAN KIEW SUB-DISTRICT, MAE THA DISTRICT, LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

The objective of this participatory action research was to analyze the guidelines for development of enterprises for society and compassionate community with the participation by people of all age intervals in Ban Kiew Subdistrict, Mae Tha District, Lampang Province. The sample groups included medicinal plant enterprise, organic community development enterprise, Hug Nam Jang community enterprise, organic community development enterprise, and Hug Green Group. These groups included 40 participants: local youths, middle-aged people, and seniors. They were purposively selected. Research data were collected with the use of in-depth interviews, panel discussion, focus group discussion, and interactive activities, with the focus on a comprehensive analysis from the upstream, midstream, and downstream, respectively. Data analysis was done using content analysis. The research’s conclusions are as follows: At the upstream level, investment should concentrate on fostering interdependence and self-reliance among community members. They should have leaders who can coordinate the networks and create mutual trust among them. The members pay attention to use a sustainable approach to solve problems in the community and have a sincere desire to do so. They should put emphasis on understanding the other members and establishing precise goals that are focused on the community, non-profits, and having regulations for living together with putting the importance on business allies. At the mid-stream level, the enterprises should incorporate the business model as a sustainable solution to social issues. The community should take ownership and be involved as operators with emphasis on community participation. For instance, businesses like restaurants, and organic vegetable farms, should focus on creating jobs and providing vocational training to empower the workforce. Diversified products should be developed to make the community an integral part of a comprehensive vocational system. At the downstream level, the community-based vocational system should be encouraged. There should be the creation of strong networks of collaboration with different organizations and strengthening the sense of community within the group. A thorough welfare system should also be made available to the members.