TRANSNATIONALIZING COMMUNITY-DEVELOPMENT - THE CASE OF MIGRATION BETWEEN BOSTON AND THE DOMINICAN-REPUBLIC

This article explores the impact of transnationalism on organizational performance through a study of an organization spanning Boston and th e Dominican Republic. Because growing numbers of migrants sustain stro ng, long-term ties to their countries of origin, these kinds of transn ational migrant organizations are becoming increasingly common. Transn ational activism enhanced organizational performance at the same time that it constrained it. The organization contributed significantly to sending-community development. A more diverse, highly-skilled group of residents participated. The organization functioned more efficiently and accountably, and the community enhanced its position vis-a-vis the state. The benefits of transnationality were not without cost. A shar p division of labor between donors and beneficiaries meant that nonmig rant interests sometimes received short shrift. There were significant ebbs and flows in activism. Finally, the community's heightened abili ty to solve its problems set a precedent that allowed the Dominican go vernment to pursue policies unfavorable to rural development.