PEMBERDAYAAN DISABILITAS PADA KELOMPOK DIFABEL DESA (KDD) DESA JUGLANGAN SITUBONDO

Abstract

Persons with disabilities experience physical, mental, or intellectual limitations that restrict their participation in social, economic, and cultural life. These barriers include stigma, decrimination, and limited access to facilities and employment opportunities, thus requiring structured empowerment efforts. This study aims to identify, describe, and analyze the empowerment of persons with disabilities conducted by the Kelompok Difabel Desa (KDD) in Juglangan Village, Situbondo, and to examine the effectiveness of its activities in improving members abilities, self-confidence, and social roles. This reseach applies Amartya Sen’s development theory, focusing on the capability approach and development as freedom and uses a qualitative method. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results show that KDD activities, such a rice cracker production training, public speaking practice, batik making, and kinesiotherapy, have positive impacts on improving work skills, increasing courage to appear in public spaces, strengthening self-confidence, and expaning social functioning. In addition, thes empowerment activities encourage more open attitudes within the community toward persons with disabilities. In general, disability empowerment carried out by KDD in Juglangan Village has been effective in creating opportunites for members to develop their capabilities and exercise greater freedom in daily life. However, challenges remain, regarding market access and participation