Motivations for Involvement in Nonmetropolitan LGBTQ Organizations: A Multimethod Qualitative Exploration

Megan S. Paceley, Lance C. Keene, Benjamin J. Lough

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Organizations serving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) communities provide services aimed at improving the health and well-being of LGBTQ people, yet may face limited resources and community support in nonmetropolitan communities. This study seeks to understand LGBTQ individuals’ motivations for becoming and staying involved in nonmetropolitan LGBTQ organizations. Data collection methods included interviews, participant observation, and focus groups. Six categories of motivations emerged: (1) to access support and resources; (2) to establish an LGBTQ community; (3) to be generative; (4) to affirm identity; (5) to support an LGBTQ organization; and (6) to combine one’s personal and professional lives.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)102-125
Number of pages24
JournalJournal of Community Practice
Volume23
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2 2015

Keywords

  • community
  • community organization
  • community practice
  • community-based organizations
  • community-based research
  • GLBT issues

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Development
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Public Administration

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