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Jackson, Tenn. - A research team made up of students from Union
University, in a joint-venture with the United Way of West Tennessee, is
currently conducting Reality Check 2000, a needs assessment survey for
Haywood County in Tenn.
"The needs of a community are constantly changing," says
Darin White, associate professor of business at Union and team leader for
the assessment. "Unmet needs reflect demands for services that are
brought about by shrinking state and federal funding, which is why this
assessment is so important, particularly to the residents of Haywood
County."
According to White, the assessment survey is being done primarily
through phone calls to random households, though a group of volunteers
will be assembled to collect data door-to-door to ensure that the voice of
the public housing residents is heard.
Approximately ten minutes in length, the survey focuses on what the
community itself perceives to be the current problem areas for the county.
Data will be collected using a survey instrument called COMPASS, which is
widely used by United Way organizations across the country.
The initial research for household surveys began March 1 and will
continue through April 30.
"By identifying community attitudes and the use of health and
human services that are available," says White, "we can
determine if community support exists for expanding those needed services
through the use of local funds."
The community's cooperation is essential and highly encouraged.
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