Thai community development and civic engagement in Los Angeles: Local business characteristics and perspectives

Purpose: The purpose was to analyze the characteristics of local business owners/managers and key stakeholders in Thai Town and their perspectives on community development. Business surveys and stakeholder interviews were conducted to determine whether or not bifurcation impacts community development, whether the characteristics of local businesses play a role in participation and collaboration within the community, and whether views on community development are similar or different.;Theoretical Framework: The theoretical foundations are based upon the democratic theory along with theories about, civic engagement, collaboration, and community development.;Methodology: In-person surveys of local businesses in Thai Town were conducted in order to explore the characteristics of businesses and their level of involvement in community development. In-person interviews of key stakeholders were conducted in order to compare and contrast with local businesses' perspectives.;Findings and Conclusions: There is little bifurcation among local business owners/managers within the Thai community. However, both local business owners/managers and key stakeholders agree that participation/unity is the most important factor in the success of Thai Town's community development. Moreover, Thai residents have a strong connection within their ethnic enclave, but are unlikely to participate in community organizations.;Recommendation: Further study on the reasons behind a lack of participation or unity within a community is recommended. Moreover, Thai residents who live in Thai Town should be included to allow for examination of the similarities and differences between local businesses and local residents. Finally, comparing Thai Town with other ethnic communities will give further understanding of community development issues.