Empowering People With Disabilities Through Productive Zakat A Baznas Blitar Regency Intiative To Enhance The Quality Of Life Of Vulnerable Groups

Abstract

Limited access to economic opportunities for people with disabilities leaves them vulnerable to social and economic disempowerment, necessitating sustainable empowerment strategies through productive zakat. This study aims to analyze the management of productive zakat for people with disabilities at BAZNAS Blitar Regency, identify the factors supporting and hindering its implementation, and examine its impact on improving the quality of life of beneficiaries. The study employed a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation involving BAZNAS Blitar Regency, the Indonesian Association of People with Disabilities (PPDI) Blitar Regency, and beneficiaries with disabilities, and were subsequently analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and the drawing and verification of conclusions. The results of the study indicate that the management of productive zakat has been implemented through the stages of planning, organizing, implementation, supervision, and evaluation, supported by needs assessments, the provision of business capital, training, mentoring, and monitoring. The program's success was supported by BAZNAS's commitment, collaboration with PPDI, active participation by beneficiaries, and training activities, while limitations in the number of mentors, human resources, and the intensity of mentoring posed the main challenges. Informants reported that the program contributed to increases in income, skills, self-confidence, independence, and social participation among people with disabilities. These findings indicate that productive zakat has the potential to be an effective empowerment tool for improving the quality of life of vulnerable groups through strengthened governance and sustainable mentoring.