Evaluation of the effectiveness of social support programs in improving the quality of life of underserved communities

  • Manal M. Alqahtani Associate Professor of Social Work, Department of Social Work, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O.Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
Keywords: community-driven, empowerment, multifaceted, interventions, Social support programs, stakeholder collaboration

Abstract

Social support programs play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of underserved communities and enhancing their quality of life. This evaluation examines the effectiveness of social support programs in achieving these objectives. The assessment considers diverse forms of social support, encompassing financial aid, community engagement, healthcare services, and educational initiatives. Drawing on a comprehensive review of relevant literature, the evaluation scrutinizes the impact of such programs on key indicators of quality of life, including health outcomes, economic well-being, social cohesion, and educational attainment. The analysis explores the strengths and limitations of social support interventions, emphasizing the importance of context-specific approaches tailored to the unique challenges faced by underserved communities. Additionally, the evaluation considers the role of community empowerment, resilience-building, and sustainable development in ensuring the long-term success of social support initiatives. Findings indicate that well-designed and culturally sensitive social support programs can significantly contribute to enhancing the quality of life in underserved communities, but success is contingent upon strategic implementation, stakeholder collaboration, and a commitment to addressing systemic barriers. This evaluation underscores the multifaceted nature of social support interventions and advocates for a holistic and community-driven approach to foster lasting positive change.
Published
2024-06-30
How to Cite
Alqahtani, M. M. (2024) “Evaluation of the effectiveness of social support programs in improving the quality of life of underserved communities”, Journal of Community Positive Practices, (2), pp. 95-114. doi: 10.35782/JCPP.2024.2.05.
Section
Articles