Social management and community development: the power of informal organization in social interest housing projects

Abstract

This study aims to qualify a social management process based on community development attributes revealed in social work carried out by an informal group of beneficiaries of a venture financed by the National Social Interest Housing System, located in the municipality of São Gonçalo do Amarante (RN). The research focuses on the case of a local informal collective called Lambe Sal Association. The lexicometric analysis of the data collected via a focus’ group with members of the association shows that the community’s engagement has relevant functions in the venture. This reveals a social management practice characterized by interdependence and solidary principles that contribute to solidarity, bringing people together through volunteering, linking them through services such as cleaning common areas, and promoting leisure events. The quality of the dialogue and intersubjective relations contribute to point out emancipatory initiatives and reveal communitarian life improvements that exceed the original functions and interests of the group.

Keywords:
Social management; Informal organization; Community development; Community organization; Social interest housing