DEVELOPING PRACTICE-BASED CITIZENSHIP THROUGH VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES: LESSONS LEARNED FROM AN ACADEMIC SERVICE PROJECT IN BAN DU SUBDISTRICT, MUEANG DISTRICT, CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to examine: 1) The process of promoting knowledge, unity, and understanding of citizens’ rights and responsibilities toward themselves and others; 2) The outcomes of volunteer activities in strengthening community resilience; and 3) To synthesize policy recommendations for the development of volunteer activities and models for promoting love, unity, and citizenship at the local level under a democratic society with the King as Head of State. Building on the conceptual framework of community development through volunteer activities under the JITARSA Model, this qualitative study collected data from document and project report reviews, field observations, and reflective accounts of the implementation outcomes provided by stakeholders in the study area. The target group consisted of 500 volunteer citizens in Ban Du Subdistrict. Key informants were selected through purposive sampling from among local volunteers. Data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis, including thematic categorization, interpretive meaning-making, and consistency checks across data sources. The findings revealed that activities implemented under the JITARSA Model promoted participatory learning and learning through practical experience. Citizens demonstrated increased awareness of their rights and duties, stronger cooperation and unity within the community, and the development of volunteer networks. In addition, the model encouraged knowledge exchange and strengthened the community. It also generated a process of social learning that fostered public consciousness and reinforced the role of citizens as active participants in sustainable community development. The JITARSA Model can therefore be applied as a policy tool for developing volunteer activities that enhance community strength at the local level and can be extended to other communities with similar contexts.