06 - Laserfiche WebLink

DISCUSSION In collaboration with the cities of Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton, staff began working with Resource Development Associates (RDA) to update the Needs Assessment in November 2010. RDA used a mixed method research approach that included quantitative and qualitative data sources. The 2011 Needs Assessment began with the development of the Eastern Alameda County Human Services Steering Committee, which included diverse leadership from City staff, former elected officials, commissioners and non-profit organizations. The committee was tasked with identifying key stakeholders, review findings, and developing a vision statement to help guide current and future activities associated with addressing human service needs in the Tri- Valley. RDA's analysis included U.S. Census, American Community Survey and Alameda County Social Service Agency data. They conducted 18 interviews with community leaders, 14 focus groups with social service recipients, developed a Hard to Reach Population Survey with over 300 responses, and a Social Service Provider Survey completed by over 70 representatives of 38 regional social service organizations that provided additional local data. In September 2011, community meetings were held in each of the three (3) communities with over 70 people in attendance. In December 2011, the draft Needs Assessment was made available for public review and comment. As a result of all the information obtained through RDA's research, 14 areas of concern are addressed in the final document including: Community Issues, Service Delivery Environment, Current Gaps in Services or Barriers to Improving Service, and Suggestions for Improvement. The attached document, the "Eastern Alameda County 2011 Human Services Needs Assessment: Findings Report" makes several conclusions and recommendations related to the human services provision in the Tri-Valley. Conclusions: • The demand for human services is increasing at the same time those resources to provide services are diminishing. • Public transportation limitations present a significant barrier to residents seeking human services. • An increase in ethnic diversity and linguistic isolation creates a barrier to accessing services and organizations are struggling to adjust. • There is not enough affordable housing to meet the growing demand. • Increased homelessness has amplified the demand for temporary shelters. • There are not enough Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drug Services located in the region. • There is insufficient extended care, after school, and summer programming in the Tri-Valley to support the social development of children and youth. • There are insufficient workforce development opportunities in the Tri-Valley, particularly for women, seniors, youth, and the disabled. Page 3 of 4