CONDUCT A COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT.
Part 1: Discuss history of Central Islip, NY 11722 following these guidelines
- Using a community with which you are familiar, conduct an assessment to develop greater understanding of the community. Through observations, analysis of U.S. Census data, assess how well the community carries out the functions of socialization, social control and mutual support. Pay special attention to strengths and resources.
❖ Community observation
➢ Discuss the socio-geographic characteristics. What is the racial/ ethnic/ gender/age composition of residents.
➢ Discuss the economic characteristics. Who are the major employers in the area? What is the median income of residents? What are the indicators of poverty? Describe access to affordable housing, healthcare and public transportation.
➢ Discuss the social characteristics. Are there community recreation centers, places of worship, senior centers? Describe access to social services, mental health, substance abuse or mutual aid agencies. Discuss your thoughts about why the community does or does not offer these services.
➢ Discuss the public education system. How many students are served, graduation rates, percent of students going on to four year colleges, percent of students receiving free/reduced lunches, student/teacher ratio, and percent of teachers with Master’s degrees.
➢ Discuss the political characteristics. Is there a political presence (campaign offices, signs that read “support the school budget”)? Is there a civic association? Are elected officials present in the community?
❖ Analysis of Census Data
➢ Analyze past and recent census data. Have there been any significant changes over time? For example, have there been changes in the ethnic make up of the community or the socio-economic status of residents over time of the past 20 years. Discuss you thoughts about the possible causes for these changes.
Part 2: Discuss education in low-income communities and the benefits of a community need assessment. Come up with a policy analysis as it relates to targeted interventions for that community. The intervention will be determined by perceived and found need