A Community Concerns Report Method for Local Agenda Setting

Abstract

A requisite of effective community development practice is an understanding of local values and citizens' perspectives on various community interests. The informationgathering process should rely on citizen involvement in not only the design and implementation of a survey but the interpretation of its results as well. This article describes the Community Concerns Report method for identifying local strengths, problems and ideas for enhancing and improving conditions. The method was developed in response to the requests of neighborhood improvement groups for a tool that encouraged grassroots agenda-building and action. The Community Concerns Report represents an alternative to needs assessment and community survey techniques. Its implementation with a neighborhood improvement association also is reported. The Community Concerns Report method represents an important and useful tool with which community development practitioners can assist local citizens in improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods and towns.