Community Analysis Task Force Project (CATFP) (200 points):
By the end of the semester, the student will conduct an analysis and task force paper on his or her community to achieve the student learning outcome objectives listed above. The student will write a coherent and academically well-prepared essay. The following format should be used: 10 pages minimum (does not include a cover or reference page), APA format, double-spaced, and be conscientious of grammar. Family involvement is encouraged when researching for this assignment. This assignment is an individual assignment.
Content of Paper:
The assignment content will be a synopsis on the following:
1. Describe the community, brief history, present-day environment including the current demographics (size, ethnic composition, location, points of interest, etc.)
2. Describe the type and amount of business and industry in the town. Include the number of employees, type of business, or trade; interview at least one major employer. Determine the employer’s economic impact on the area.
3. Interview someone from one school district in the community and identify all school districts (including higher education institutions). Identify the main strengths and the significant concerns of the schools in the community.
4. City Government and city services. (Police department, trash pickup, animal services, etc.)
5. Describe the downtown environment: does the city/town have a main street organization? Are stores and businesses located downtown? Interview a business owner or main street representative.
6. Identify the non-profits in the town and the number of volunteers for each. Interview at least one executive director of a non-profit organization and describe the mission of the non-profit, challenges, and successes.
7. Describe the current access residents have to medical care. Include the number and types of hospitals, clinics, private practitioners, and care available to impoverished residents.
8. Describe the arts community: museums, art galleries, performance venues, etc. Interview someone from the arts community and determine how the arts affect the quality of life in that town or area.
9. Who are the state and federal officials for the community? Where are their offices?
10. Describe the churches in the community and determine how each contributes to the town: private schools outreach to meet community needs, recreational and fellowship needs of members, etc.
11. Is a chamber of commerce available?
12. City parks or community recreation centers or venues.
13. Community shelter, community centers, or supportive shelters.
14. Workforce Solutions of Northeast Texas office or designated office for the community.
15. Local media outlets such as newspapers, TV stations, radios, etc.
After concluding research, encompass the following:
• Perform a SWOT Analysis: Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats
• After completing the research, brainstorm about improvements that could be made to make the community a better place to live.
Did learning take place during the process?
Is there a particular area of concern or need for improvement?
Would you/the student be interested in serving in an elected or appointed position in the future for the community?
This is an academic paper, so what does that mean? The paper should well be organized, coherent, grammar free, and excellent writing mechanics. In enhancing one’s academic writing skills, having a good proofreader is essential and, also reading books will improve writing skills as well. Avoid pronouns verbiage as I, me, you, etc. (unless it’s a personal reflection). The University also has a Student Success Center on the third floor of the University Center, and it is encouraged for students to contact them for assistance. Please visit the Purdue Owl online for assistance on APA.
