Community Needs Assessment
Communities and the people who live in them are ever-evolving and changing systems which must adapt to changes to best meet the needs of all its members.
Overview
People in today's urban communities and workplaces come from different and diverse backgrounds and possess many unique cultures, customs, and values. Assessing the needs of such a multi-faceted group requires a comprehensive approach to determine community strengths, areas for improvement, and strategic initiatives to solve problems. A community needs assessment is an "asset-based" approach that provides community leaders with a roadmap for success that will drive innovation and lead to a thriving community where all individuals' needs can be met. Involving community members in assessing their needs communicates that their perceptions and insights are valued in the planning process. The involvement of community members creates a sense of ownership and a willingness to be an active part of the change process.
More information
In this course, learners will be guided through what community needs assessments typically involve, who needs to be involved in them and how to conduct the assessment effectively. This will lead to developing an individualized action plan where you identify the role learners can play in creating an effective and efficient assessment for the community and/or workplace in which they reside.
Psychology; Sociology; Interpersonal Communication; Intercultural Communication
