Community Engagement Experiences of Social Entrepreneurs in Rural Communities : An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Abstract

Abstract: Using the lens of interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study explored the community engagement experiences of six social entrepreneurs working with rural communities in the Philippines and how they made meaning of their community engagement experience. Data were gathered through semistructured interviews. The findings illustrate how engaging with rural communities through social entrepreneurship is a way for the entrepreneurs to help communities uplift their economic condition and to achieve other social goals such as improvement of the community’s quality of life and environmental sustainability. Social entrepreneurship was also a way to help empower communities as well as build their capabilities, shape positive values through culture building, and nurture relationships. Implications of the study to social enterprise research and policy, community engagement programs, and leader development are discussed.

Abstract

Impact and Implications:

The importance of addressing poverty and hunger as well as of collectively striving for “inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all” is emphasized in the 2015–2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The multiple bottom lines sought by social entrepreneurs align with these SDGs and are achieved by empowering and engaging economically challenged local communities. Using a psychological lens, this study gathered insights from the experiences of social entrepreneurs working with rural communities in the Philippines that may orient competency development of social entrepreneurs as well as efforts to enhance community engagement programs of organizations.