United Way study reveals needs for young, elderly

Cathy Miller works as community impact director for United Way of Madison County. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON COUNTY – United Way of Madison County has released its 2014 Community Needs Assessment Report, an independent analysis of local challenges with health and human services.

“This important document represents months of preparation and research conducted by a team led by Dr. Amy Shadoin of Premier Evaluations Inc.,” United Way Community Impact Director Cathy Miller said.

This review and evaluation “is based on voices from all walks of life and is aimed to help the community … nonprofit partners and the larger nonprofit community understand the current needs and greatest challenges locally,” Miller said.

Premier Evaluations collected data from the U.S. census and surveys of administrators and workers in government, business, health and education, along with nonprofit and social service providers and their clients.

All participants voiced their primary concerns about health and human service needs that they have or that they see in their families, neighborhoods and workplaces. They also stated where gaps exist in services.

Miller said the community’s broad consensus revealed 20 specific needs that deserve top priority:

* Dental care, especially for adults.

* Education for parents and support for adults entering or re-entering the workforce.

* Affordable housing.

* Mental health services and basic needs as a bridge to stability.

“Issues such as transportation, crime and needs of fragile populations, such as young children and older adults, also surfaced,” Miller said.

“This report gives Madison County a foundation for informed decision-making and community dialogue. Certainly, our community has some tough questions to answer to sustain a healthy, vibrant community,” Miller Said.

Clay Vandiver, president and CEO of United Way of Madison County, believes residents must mobilize resources to meet this challenge. “Together, our community can make a positive, lasting impact in the lives of more individuals and families,” Vandiver said.

Lockheed Martin Employees Foundation and state representatives Mike Ball, Laura Hall and Howard Sanderford gave financial support for the study and subsequent report.

For view the report, visit madisoncountycares.org/whatwedo/needsassessment.