Abstract
Statement of the Issue
This thesis investigates selected dynamics of the Tahoe Park Neighborhood Association (TPNA), located in Sacramento, California. The exploratory study seeks to understand how the TPNA fosters community identity and promotes social and neighborhood change. The construction of three themes: (1) the reasons why people become involved in neighborhood associations; (2) the extent to which the neighborhood association represents community; (3) and the relationship between the neighborhood and local government reveal how neighborhood associations conceptualize their
community and how social ties are constructed. Findings of this case study may give insight into how "effective" neighborhood associations can forge focused goals and achieve their objectives.
Sources of Data
Three sources are used to collect information: available literature, participant observation, and personal interviews. Census data (1990) and Sacramento Bee archive articles are a major data source regarding neighborhood associations in Sacramento and information gathered on the TPNA. Historical and contemporary social science literature provide perspective and context for analysis. Participant-observer role methods
are employed to evaluate social settings including general monthly association meetings and park events. In addition, thirty-one in-depth interviews were conducted with TPNA officers, members, chosen residents, selected local officials, and relevant business representatives. The interviews helped illuminate the three themes established by neighborhood and community literature.
Conclusions Reached
Based on past literature, I conclude that the Tahoe Park is an emergent neighborhood in transition. An influx of new residents since 1990, a large number of rental homes, school reform, and Stockton and Folsom Boulevard's economic development make the neighborhood fragile. The TPNA is an "instrumental performer" attempting to address these transitional concerns and maintain neighborhood stability. Based on participant observation, I conclude that park activities attract a diverse representation of neighborhood residents. General neighborhood association meetings do not attract much neighborhood participation and are less represented than other TPNA sponsored events.
Based on the thirty-one personal interviews, I conclude that residents view the TPNA as fulfilling a diverse set of objectives including: facilitating the
construction of social ties, establishing a sense of community, and serving as a link to local government. Further, interviews revealed that people establish a sense of community primarily by getting to know neighbors. Overall, community identity and neighborhood change is "enhanced" by this formal association in Tahoe Park. Recommendations for neighborhood change are provided in the summary.