Abstract:
Rural areas have encountered numerous changes to the economic and social fabric of
their communities over recent decades. The combined impact of climatic conditions,
changing economies and the outmigration of individuals has had a detrimental effect on
rural communities. The reduction in government funding and support for community
activities has also led to many rural communities becoming disenfranchised with rural
lifestyles. As a result the social and recreational opportunities that community events
contribute to the quality of life of these com munities have become increasingly important.
However the question arises as to what rural communities can do to foster community
participation, particularly, identifying those factors that influence individuals to participate
in community activities so as to facilitate community engagement and development.
This paper addresses these gaps by identifying factors that influence community
participation in the organizing and planning of rural events. These findings have
important implications for the development of strategies that can enhance community
engagement and can contribute to the sustainability of rural communities.
