Community Compass Surveys

Data Collection

The data collection component of Community Compass involved collecting opinion and indicative data from a variety of sources.

The Community Compass Data Collection process involved the collection of both opinion and indicator data about the region. The Community Compass Region includes: Bethany, Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, West Haven and Woodbridge.

With the Center for Survey Research and Analysis at the University of CT, a random-digit-dial Household Survey was conducted among 902 households in the region. The data were weighted to adjust for probabilities of selection, sample design and to ensure that the characteristics of respondents match the population estimates for the area.

In addition, a Community Leader Survey was conducted which was both a direct mail and on-line survey. The data were compiled by Don Klepper Smith of Scillia, Dowling and Natarelli, thanks to the generous underwriting of the United Illuminating Company. Of the respondents:

• 15% Business
• 12% Government Official
• 20% Community/Neighborhood/Religious Leader
• 60% Nonprofit or social service provider
• 50/50 Male/Female
• 82% White
• 11% African America
• 7% Other
• 6% Hispanic

Thirty one-on-one interviews were conducted with community leaders throughout the region from all sectors. Focus groups were conducted for selected constituents – Hispanic, Black Leadership, Social Service, Homeless and disadvantaged children.

On the assets side, data was gathered from civically engaged groups, organizations, companies through a mail survey that has been sent to over 1000 potential respondents.

The largest data committee assembled existing data from the U.S. Census, educational, economic and health data from the state and just about everything ever gathered/published relating to approximately 70 indicators, against which all other data was analyzed.

See the Community Indicator Report.

Community Assets Survey

Community Compass cataloged community assets by having various community groups complete asset surveys. These groups included civic groups, businesses, labor, arts and collaboratives.

To participate or for more information please contact Sarah McNeely, Community Compass Project Manager by phone (203)772-2010, ext. 225 or e-mail smcneely@uwgnh.org