In social welfare, what does the term 'community' refer to?

In social welfare, the term 'community' primarily refers to a group of people in a geographic area who share common interests. This definition highlights that a community is not just about geographical proximity but also about the connections, relationships, and shared goals among its members.

Communities often come together to address collective needs and challenges, which is a fundamental aspect of social welfare initiatives. These shared interests can encompass a variety of areas such as cultural, social, economic, or environmental issues. Therefore, when engaging in social welfare efforts, understanding the needs and interests of communities allows for more effective support and intervention strategies.

The other options present definitions that do not align with the established concept of a community in social welfare. For instance, a diverse group of individuals without common goals lacks the cohesion and collaborative spirit typically found in a community. People living outside a political system may not constitute a functional community in the context of social services since political structures often play a role in community organization and resources. Lastly, a network of businesses and stakeholders focuses more on economic relations than on the social fabric of community life. This distinction is crucial for understanding how communities function within the realm of social welfare.