Part 2 Community Assessment Review The Windshield Survey Aid

Part 2 Community Assessmentreviewthewindshield Survey Aidreview The

Review the Windshield Survey Resources. Observe the community of Skokie, Illinois, using internet resources and Google Maps. Conduct a windshield survey that evaluates aspects such as housing condition, infrastructure needs, presence of businesses, public spaces, street activity, noise levels, traffic, public buildings, walkability, public transportation, social service centers, parks, churches, community centers, health care facilities, schools, food availability, homeless population, police and fire presence. Compile the data using the Windshield Survey Template, including an overview of community components, community strengths, and gaps or weaknesses. Develop one family nursing diagnosis based on identified community resource gaps indicating potential health risks. Present your findings in an 18- to 20-slide presentation with minimal text on slides, using speaker notes for detailed explanations.

Paper For Above instruction

The purpose of this community assessment is to evaluate the neighborhood of Skokie, Illinois, through a comprehensive windshield survey to identify environmental and infrastructural factors affecting residents' health. By systematically observing community features, this assessment aims to highlight strengths and vulnerabilities that influence health outcomes and to inform nursing strategies for community-based interventions.

Introduction

Community health is profoundly affected by the socio-environmental context in which people live, work, and play. The built environment, access to services, and social infrastructure shape health behaviors and outcomes. Conducting a windshield survey provides a direct observation approach to evaluating these factors in Skokie, Illinois, a suburb known for its diverse population and well-developed community resources. This assessment offers insights into living conditions, community assets, gaps in services, and areas needing improvement to support holistic health promotion.

Community Overview

Skokie, Illinois, spans approximately 10.7 square miles, with a population exceeding 66,000 residents. Demographically diverse, the community includes a mix of ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The housing stock includes single-family homes, apartment complexes, and condominiums, many of which are well-maintained, though some older properties exhibit wear and tear. The community's infrastructure comprises extensive roads, pedestrian pathways, and public transit options, supporting mobility and accessibility. Central to Skokie are several parks, community centers, and health facilities fostering social cohesion and wellness programs.

Housing and Infrastructure

The housing in Skokie features predominantly detached single-family homes with intact exteriors, manicured lawns, and accessible sidewalks, indicating stable housing conditions. However, some older neighborhoods reveal signs of aging infrastructure, including cracked sidewalks and outdated streetlights. The community’s road network is generally well-maintained, with visible signage and functional traffic signals. Bridges and streetlights are operational, with ongoing maintenance supporting safety and transit efficiency.

Commercial and Public Spaces

Commercial zones in Skokie include small retail stores, grocery outlets, and service centers, which are accessible and operational. Industrial facilities are present but primarily located away from residential areas, reducing exposure to potential pollutants. Public spaces, such as parks and recreational areas, are abundant; distances are walkable from most residential neighborhoods, fostering outdoor activity. Public buildings, including the Skokie Village Hall and community centers, are centrally located and in good condition, facilitating community engagement and public services.

Community Activity and Environment

Street activity fluctuates throughout the week, with higher pedestrian and vehicle presence during daytime working hours and weekends. Noise levels are moderate in residential zones but increase near commercial centers and busy intersections. Traffic is manageable, with clear signage and dedicated bike lanes enhancing safety. The walkability of the community is high, with sidewalks, crosswalks, and biking paths designed for safety and convenience. Public transportation options, including buses, are available with reasonable costs and accessibility for residents, supporting those without private vehicles.

Community Resources and Services

Skokie provides a range of social service centers, public libraries, churches, and community centers. Healthcare facilities include multiple clinics, with some hospitals located nearby, ensuring access to urgent and preventive care. Food resources include grocery stores and local markets, though there are minimal food deserts, indicating adequate nutritional access overall. The homeless population appears small but is served by outreach programs and shelters. Police and fire services are visible and responsive, promoting safety and emergency readiness.

Educational and Recreational Facilities

Local schools are dispersed throughout the community, primarily in good physical condition. Educational facilities are well-maintained, with playgrounds, sports fields, and classroom resources supporting student learning and health. Parks and recreational centers offer sports, fitness, and cultural activities, contributing to physical activity and social integration. The proximity of schools and parks enhances walkability and encourages active lifestyles among residents.

Community Strengths and Gaps

Strengths identified include well-maintained neighborhoods, accessible healthcare, abundant green spaces, and diverse community resources. These factors promote health, social cohesion, and community resilience. Identified weaknesses or gaps include occasional infrastructure deterioration, limited mental health services specific to community needs, and the presence of food deserts in some sections, which may compromise nutritional health. Additionally, more targeted outreach might be necessary for the homeless population and vulnerable groups.

Family Nursing Diagnosis

Based on the identified gap in community resources—specifically, limited mental health services and food insecurity—a possible family nursing diagnosis is:

"Impaired community health related to inadequate access to mental health services and nutritional resources, as evidenced by food deserts and limited mental health facilities, leading to increased risk for mental health issues and poor nutritional status among residents."

Conclusion

The Skokie community demonstrates robust infrastructure, active public spaces, and accessible health services, fostering a healthy environment. However, targeted improvements in infrastructure maintenance, mental health services, and food accessibility can further enhance health outcomes. The windshield survey offers a valuable foundation for planning community health nursing interventions aimed at addressing these gaps and strengthening community resilience.

References

• Burgess, L. (2019). Community health nursing: From principles to practice (7th ed.). Elsevier.
• Department of Public Health, Illinois. (2020). Community health assessment and neighborhood data. Illinois.gov.
• Frank, J. (2015). Urban health and environmental planning. Journal of Urban Health, 92(3), 421-431.
• Green, L. W., & Kreuter, M. W. (2005). Health program planning: An educational perspective. McGraw-Hill.
• Krueger, R. A., & Casey, M. A. (2015). Focus groups: A practical guide for applied research. Sage Publications.
• National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership. (2021). Community assessment tools. NNIP.org.
• Public Health Agency of Canada. (2018). Community assessment framework. Canada.ca.
• World Health Organization. (2016). Urban health: An urgent need. WHO Publications.
• Stokols, D. (2018). Enhancing the science and practice of community health planning. American Journal of Community Psychology, 61(1-2), 3-12.
• Community Tool Box. (2020). Conducting a windshield survey. University of Kansas. CommunityToolBox.org.