Abstract
This study explores an approach to public management by examining the activities of “Nukumori no Kai,” a voluntary group established by residents of Oshika Village, Nagano, aimed at engaging in preventive care activities. Field research was conducted with three main participant groups: the volunteers of “Nukumori no Kai,” relevant officials from the Oshika Village office, and staff from the Oshika Village Social Welfare Council. This research spanned two visits (a total of three days) on September 28, 2022, and July 20-21, 2023, employing methods such as participant observation, interviews, focus groups, and discussions. The study was centered on direct observation and participation, focusing on individuals’ experiences and stories to create a structured narrative. Discourse analysis was utilized to examine and interpret communication patterns and language within these interactions. The research revealed that “Nukumori no Kai” fosters an environment where residents, as well as interactions between residents and institutions like the local government and social welfare council, can engage more freely by becoming familiar with one another. This facilitated the development of a network where residents could voice their concerns more easily and be heard effectively. The activities of “Nukumori no Kai” act as a community lubricant by expanding the range of responsiveness, showing that this approach can also serve as a form of public management through “community strength.”
