Blue Valley Community Action Partnership encourages all residents to take its Community Voices Survey to help shape future community programs and services.
In partnership with Public Health Solutions, BVCA is conducting its Community Needs Assessment, which is required by the government as part of BVCA's Community Services Block Grant funding. The organizations conduct the assessment every three years to stay up to date with community needs.
The updated assessment helps organizations determine what services they need to focus on.
“This informs a lot of what we do and lets us know, 'Are we doing a good job currently of meeting the needs in the community as community members see it?' 'Are we duplicating services with another organization?' 'What should we be looking to bring in terms of new programming?'” said BVCA communication and development officer Ben Schwartz.
Many of BVCA's current programs emphasize affordable housing, weatherization, early childhood education, family services and food pantries. Public Health Solutions focuses on promoting wellness, preventing health threats and educating the public.
The survey gathers feedback from members of the public, the organizations’ partners and community officials. Everyone in BVCA's service area — which includes Saline, Seward, Butler, Thayer, Fillmore, Jefferson, York, Gage and Polk counties — is encouraged to participate.
Schwartz said people should report the things they see going on in their area, regardless of whether those things affect them personally.
The organizations will review the survey results, categorize them and track how often different needs are identified. The survey typically sees needs such as food insecurity and child care. Some years, other issues, such as radon mitigation, also emerge, Schwartz said.
A Community Needs Assessment is only as strong as the voices behind it, according to BVCA CEO Shari Weber.
“The survey gives every individual an opportunity to be heard,” she said. “Every survey completed helps us better understand the challenges, opportunities and priorities facing our communities.”
She said BVCA hopes to receive as many responses as possible to ensure the results accurately reflect the community.
“Whether you have used our services or not, your perspective matters and can help create stronger, healthier communities for everyone,” Weber said. “By taking a few minutes to participate, you are helping shape the programs, services and investments that can improve lives for years to come.”
The survey is available in English and Spanish until Sunday, July 5. It takes about 10 minutes, and those who complete it will be entered into a drawing for a $50 prize.
To find the survey, visit Blue Valley Community Action on Facebook, scan the QR code with this story or visit https://bit.ly/4wgkoj5.
