This paper investigates the process of how actions of community groups are initiated and carried out. It also identifies key characteristics of participation in community action projects. Social actions in two communities in North Carolina are studied from a 10-year period. (Author/CT)

This study focuses on two small communities, the type of community civic actions they have experienced, whether there have been projects to improve their socioeconomic resources, and the context in which they have been carried out. The communities' programs, projects, and other citizen action during the past 10 years are studied. (Author)