Community Immersion Usc
SOWK 543- Fall 2012
Assignment #1: Community Immersion
Joseph Gossner
9/25/12
Stephanie Carter
Abstract
The purpose of this research paper is to compare and contrast two smaller sub-communities that are encompassed by the larger community of Santa Maria, California. This paper will promote the beliefs and theories of modern Social Workers, and address the resources and needs of the two communities in question. The compilation of this paper was derived from research that was conducted through interactions and exposure to the residents of these two communities, in conjunction with, interviews and site visits to several community organizations, recreational facilities, and areas of worship. Upon completion of this paper, the reader will possess a clear depiction of the two communities, their similarities and differences, and the resources and needs of the communities.
A City Split in Two
Several different scholars and researchers have defined the term community in many different ways. The definition is always closely related to their field of study, and enhances the term to encompass their beliefs and/or theory. Many of these definitions contain key concepts and are closely related in definition. The most common definition of community is, “that combination of social units and systems that that perform the major social functions relevant to meeting people’s needs on a local level” (Waren 1978). The construct of a community occurs when a population of people “form a social unit based on common location, interest, identification, culture and/or activities” (Fellin 2001). Communities are not solely based on a geographical location and may be comprised of members sharing the same identifications and interest. Some examples of these types of communities may be; communities based on sexual orientation, gender, religious affiliation, or past experiences.
This research paper will examine communities that are based upon their geographical location.
Assignment #1: Community Immersion
Joseph Gossner
9/25/12
Stephanie Carter
Abstract
The purpose of this research paper is to compare and contrast two smaller sub-communities that are encompassed by the larger community of Santa Maria, California. This paper will promote the beliefs and theories of modern Social Workers, and address the resources and needs of the two communities in question. The compilation of this paper was derived from research that was conducted through interactions and exposure to the residents of these two communities, in conjunction with, interviews and site visits to several community organizations, recreational facilities, and areas of worship. Upon completion of this paper, the reader will possess a clear depiction of the two communities, their similarities and differences, and the resources and needs of the communities.
A City Split in Two
Several different scholars and researchers have defined the term community in many different ways. The definition is always closely related to their field of study, and enhances the term to encompass their beliefs and/or theory. Many of these definitions contain key concepts and are closely related in definition. The most common definition of community is, “that combination of social units and systems that that perform the major social functions relevant to meeting people’s needs on a local level” (Waren 1978). The construct of a community occurs when a population of people “form a social unit based on common location, interest, identification, culture and/or activities” (Fellin 2001). Communities are not solely based on a geographical location and may be comprised of members sharing the same identifications and interest. Some examples of these types of communities may be; communities based on sexual orientation, gender, religious affiliation, or past experiences.
This research paper will examine communities that are based upon their geographical location.
References: Bell, M. (2012, September 09). Interview by J Gossner [Personal Interview]. History of Santa Maria., Santa Maria Museum. Boysen, J. (2012, September 10). Interview by J Gossner [Personal Interview]. Santa Maria City Council., Santa Maria City Hall. Fellin, P. (1995). Understanding American communities. In J. Rothman, J. L. Erlich, & J. E. Tropman (Eds.), Strategies of community intervention (6th ed.)(pp. 118-132) Ittasca, Il: F. E. Nunes, C. (2012, September 09). Interview by J Gossner [Personal Interview]. Community Service. Peaco City of Santa Maria California . (2012, Febuary 03). Retrieved from http://www.ci.santa-maria.ca.us/201.shtml ck Warren, R. L. (1978). The community in America (3rd ed.). Chicago: Rand McNally Appendix