The Impact of Selected Socioeconomic Factors on Residents’ Perceptions of Benefits of Community Gardens

Participating in community gardens is believed to have several benefits; yet, there has been limited research on socioeconomic factors and their impact on community gardens. Therefore, this study assessed the impact of selected socioeconomic factors on residents’ perceptions of benefits of community gardens. Using a questionnaire, data were obtained from a convenience sample of 217 participants from Macon County, Alabama, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and ordinal logit analysis. The results showed that a majority (at least 73%) agreed or strongly agreed with statements regarding nutritional benefits, health benefits, and community benefits of community gardens. In addition, several socioeconomic factors; age, education, and annual household income, had statistically significant effects on perceptions of benefits of participating in community gardens. Consequently, it was recommended that policies and programs that encourage participation in community gardens be put in place for residents in the study area, with cooperation among, county officials, University scientists, and community residents. This will lead to benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables, eating fresher foods, and possibly, in the long-term, reducing chronic diseases. Keywords: Community gardens, Socioeconomic factors, Macon County, Rural communitie

An Analysis of the Relationship Between Leadership Styles and Community Development in Selected Counties of the Alabama Black Belt

Leadership styles are surmised to influence community development. The study, therefore, assessed the relationship between leadership styles and community development in selected Black Belt Counties of Alabama. Data were collected from a purposive sample of 38 locally elected officials, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The most dominant leadership style selected was participating; followed by telling and selling, with identical ratings; delegating; autocratic, and democratic. The most preferred economic indicators were improving the physical infrastructure and constructing a 24-hour health facility. Additionally, participants indicated that constructing or improving of an industrial park; locating a manufacturing company, and locating a tier-1 automobile supplier are important facets of community development. Furthermore, the more preferred educational factor was providing after school programs, and the more preferred social factor was providing recreational facilities. The regression results revealed that of the economic indicators, democratic leadership style had the most relative importance; of the educational indicators, telling leadership style had the most relative importance, and of the social indicators, delegating leadership style had the most relative importance. For the overall community development indicator, democratic leadership style had the most relative importance. Keywords: Leadership Styles, Leadership, Community Development, Black Bel