Participatory Development of a Strong Community: A Case Study of the Elderly Group of Bua Ban Ruen Rom Club, Khlong Ha Subdistrict, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province

Abstract

This research aims to study and analyze the factors affecting the strengthening of the Elderly Group of the Buaban Ruenrom club and the creation of new community product through the participation. This research employs a qualitative research method in the form of participatory action research.

The study found that the elderly members of the Bua Ban Ruen Rom Club are strong due to social activities, such as religious observance days and health promotion activities for the elderly that are free from substances. having social capital, strong leadership, and adhering to the sufficiency economy. But other areas should be developed to increase strength, such as building networks, seeking support from the government and private sectors, creating community learning centers, establishing community management processes and self-reliance, and having occupations that can generate sufficient income, provide safe food, and have community resources or tourist attractions within the community. Additionally, the SWOT and TOWS MATRIX analysis revealed that the elderly members of the Bua Ban Ruen Rom Club chose to leverage their strengths to create advantages and opportunities. This involved developing group products that could be enhanced and improved with support from various organizations. External agencies could create activities related to generating new jobs and careers for members, such as practical training workshops on developing Klong Ha rice tea recipes and conducting five participatory recipe development sessions. This resulted in four types of rice tea produced from rice in Pathum Thani province, which have a well-rounded flavor and a unique aroma, serving as new products to strengthen the community further.