Written by Darren Bunton   

Is a person's participation in grassroots efforts initially influenced by individual factors, and later solidified by moral, communal, or familial foundations? Or, is it the other way around? First, let's take a look at one definition of the word grassroots. According to a most simplistic source, Wikipedia, grassroots is defined as:

-a movement (often referenced in the context of a political movement) which is driven by the politics of a community. The term implies that the creation of the movement and the group supporting it are natural and spontaneous.

Because most grassroots movements at the local or community levels generally take place in urban communities, participants in movements are often associated by other acquaintances. Volunteers are often friends and family members of the organizers, and as a result of closeness (emotional) and proximity (physical) make an honest commitment to get involved.

At the same time, many of the ideologies and beliefs of the movement become instilled in the participants involved in efforts at the community level, thus influencing the values and morals of the participants and the group. Organizations that hold as its mission to benefit the whole of society, while adding value to the individual, often function as a family within a community in which its members share similar or the same morals. For example, when many volunteers (friends, family, and associates) in the community give of their time, energy, and skills to support a local political candidate or party, the outcomes can be very desirable. These actions can then contribute to the success of the national party. In other words, a grassroots movement can lead to increased voter registration, exposure for a political party or candidate, which in turn helps both local and national parties.

In conclusion, "grass roots" are closely associated and influenced by moral, communal, and familial factors. Individual experiences also contribute to someone's decision to get involved with a particular movement or organization. Other variables such as the age of the individual when they get involved also plays an important role. The impact that these same characteristics have on what types of grassroots causes in which one chooses to participate, depends on the person's motivation and personal desired outcomes, and belief-in and loyalty to the cause.