The Importance of Civic and Social Engagement in Minority Communities

Abstract

Participation in civic and social engagement among community members promotes community growth and strengthens communities and schools. Such engagement begins with creating and maintaining a sense of trust among all stakeholders. Research indicates that participation in civic and social engagement activities in minority communities depended on various factors but the two most common factors are economics and social capital (McBride, Sherraden, and Pritzker, 2004; Nath, 2012; Zani & Barrett, 2012). While there is an awareness of the importance of actively engaging in civic and social activities to support our communities, limited players in this endeavor are the youth. Thus, schools can be a major influence on increasing student involvement in community activities.