Kansas City Gathers Voices for Community Survey
Kansas City, Mo. — This week, a determined group of about 30 survey interviewers has taken to the streets, armed with enthusiasm and a mission—to gather vital information for the KC Community Survey. Their goal? To delve into topics like crime rates, economic resources, social bonds, and the range of services available to the city’s residents.
Every Voice Counts
Expert interviewer Janese Williams, a passionate advocate for community input, stated, “People in their neighborhoods know what their problems are and they even know what their solutions are, but they need to get those solutions into the hands of individuals who can impact change, and that’s what this survey does.” Her commitment shines as she engages in roughly 30-minute conversations, emphasizing the importance of community voices in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.
The survey isn’t just about collecting numbers; it’s about ensuring that everyone feels they have a seat at the table. As Principal Investigator Dr. Maja Kotlaja expressed, “If someone has a problem, who do they go to? Do they get a resolution for that problem?”
From Conversations to Action
The team is four days into their efforts and has already logged over 100 responses. But don’t worry if you haven’t had a chance to participate yet—the initial survey period is expected to extend into the end of October, with a target of 800 responses across 40 neighborhoods. This extensive participation ensures a representative sample that can be compared to other cities, shedding light on what really matters to Kansas City residents.
Expert interviewer Cecil Wattree shared how the experience of going door-to-door offers deeper insights. He noted, “We have a lot of assumptions of what neighborhoods look like from the outside looking in. But as we continue to walk door to door, you get a perception of how close-knit they are, how much they communicate, and how they watch after each other.”
Changing Perspectives
Wattree’s observations underscore the need to hear from residents directly. While the data collected will provide invaluable insights, it also has the potential to shift perceptions about communities. Dr. Kotlaja added that this type of community engagement—and the depth of conversation—has never happened in Kansas City before.
Another important aspect of the survey is its focus on measuring the effectiveness of the Violence Prevention Fund investments made over the past five years in the city. Williams encourages all residents to take part, saying, “We often complain about different things that are happening, but this is an opportunity to put your money where your mouth is.”
Looking Ahead
The results of the survey will eventually be publicly available, with a dedicated website launching in January. This will create a platform for transparency, allowing residents to see firsthand how their input is being utilized to push for change.
In summary, the KC Community Survey is a significant step toward empowering Kansas City residents, getting their voices heard, and crafting a better future. So if you see one of those interviewers out there, take a moment to share your thoughts—they want to hear from you!
