Building on the inherent strengths of green space environments: Promoting trust, democracy, and resilience among ethnically diverse groups
August John Hoffman
Journal of Prevention & Intervention in the Community
Urban Farm DB summary
This quasi-experimental study examined the psychosocial and ecological impact of community service activities utilizing green space environments, such as community gardens, labyrinths, and urban forestry programs, on individual perceptions of community service learning programs and associated democratic processes. Sixteen volunteers subjectively reported their experiences, including appreciating living things, experiencing kinship with plants and animals, and a sense of belonging to nature, through engagement with various green spaces. Participants were interviewed on how these experiences shaped their views on the importance of nature and green spaces in urban settings and influenced their personal perceptions of belongingness and connectedness to both their communities and nature.