The concept of Big Society provides inspiration--working "bottom up" to promote "collective action, reciprocity and a new, more engaged relationship between local people and public services". With so much written about the theory of the Big Society, this seems like an ideal time to put a little more practical detail into the mix. The authors argue…

Locally conceived and initiated development projects are more successful than those imposed externally, but outside intervention is sometimes necessary. The implementation of the Little Sioux watershed project illustrates strategies used to overcome potential negative effects on externally initiated programs. (JOW)

Explores different ways of perceiving phenomena in micro-spaces that are essential to the understanding of reality. Specifically, analyzes the various manifestations of power within micro and macro spaces. Also discusses micro-macro relationships from a holistic perspective, and looks at problems of grass roots communities in their search for…

Changes in national demographics have altered how we define community. The community may be a geographic area of home life, a place for coming together voluntarily, or an association of people with similar interests and values. New communities must develop their own infrastructures and capacities for sustaining themselves. (SLD)

Rural Africa includes some 80% of the African population; its people are poverty stricken, illiterate, ill-sheltered, and ill-nourished. These circumstances make rural development absolutely vital. However, past rural development policies have failed to take into consideration the structure and division of labor in the farm family, the traditional…

The Illinois Rural Planning Council spent 1 year developing four task force reports assessing the needs of the state's rural areas and developing solutions to rural problems. The task force reports are principally directed to the Governor and the State Legislature, although the recommendations may be used by federal and state agencies wishing to…