Social Volunteer Contributions to Local Welfare and Community-Based Tourism Development in Dlingo Village
Keywords:
Social Volunteers, Community-Based Tourism , Local Welfare, EmpowementAbstract
Purpose – This study explores the contributions of social volunteers to local welfare and community-based tourism development in Dlingo Village, Bantul, Yogyakarta. The research seeks to understand how volunteerism shapes community empowerment, improves livelihoods, and supports sustainable tourism in a rural context. The study also addresses the lack of empirical evidence on the role of unpaid community actors in welfare-oriented tourism development.
Design/methods/approach – A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, using in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation with community volunteers and local residents involved in the River Tubing Mahesa Jaya initiative. Data credibility was ensured through triangulation of sources and methods, while analysis followed an interactive model of reduction, display, and conclusion drawing.
Findings – The study identifies seven key roles of social volunteers: innovator, broker, facilitator, network builder, supporter, mediator, and social animator. These roles led to tangible welfare improvements, including increased employment opportunities, higher household income, better infrastructure access, and enhanced community visibility. Volunteer motivation was driven by moral values, skill utilization, and future aspirations.
Research implications/limitations – The findings are context-specific to Dlingo Village and may not be directly generalizable to other rural tourism initiatives. However, they provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking low-cost, community-driven welfare strategies through tourism.
Originality/value – This study highlights the unique contributions of voluntary social actors in linking welfare and tourism development. It expands the discourse on community-based tourism by framing volunteerism as a catalyst for both empowerment and sustainable local welfare.
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