Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 5-8-2025
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Biology
First Advisor
Albert Nylander
Second Advisor
J.R. Love
Third Advisor
Laura Martin
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
The Mississippi Delta Region has long faced significant economic, educational, and health challenges and a steady population decline since the 1940s. In response, community development projects have emerged as powerful tools to promote health, well-being, and social mobility. This thesis investigates the impact of community development initiatives in Cartersville, MS, focusing on the dental clinic, educational programs, and the economic development center established by a non-profit organization. Through the lens of community development theories, the research explores how community leadership, particularly partnerships between EverHope Ministries and Cartersville leaders, is pivotal in addressing health disparities in historically marginalized populations. By engaging directly with local leaders involved in these initiatives, this research provides a mixed-methods analysis, combining interviews with qualitative assessments to evaluate the relationship between poverty, community leadership, and public health outcomes. With Cartersville’s predominantly African American population, the study offers a unique perspective on racialized health disparities. The findings aim to demonstrate how leadership-driven entrepreneurial efforts can inform broader public health and policy strategies in underserved communities, offering lessons for similar areas facing long-standing challenges.
Recommended Citation
Perkins, McKenzie B., "Economic Development in Cartersville, MS: A Case Study of a Non-profit Organization's Community Development Projects" (2025). Honors Theses. 3316.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3316
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