Social Environment Assessment Paper Assignment Instructions
People are influenced by their environment. Through environmental exposure, people form worldviews, thought processes, and ways of interacting with others. For this assignment, you will need to identify and research local and state databases to identify the needs in your community environment. This may help you gain an understanding of how your environment influences you and how the environment could impact your future potential clients. Develop a 4-6 page paper (not including the title page and references) that includes the information noted below.
First: Provide a detailed overview of the community demographics including factors such as population, racial makeup, crime rate, income levels, etc. What are the most important things to know about your city? Are there any interesting facts? Also discuss why it is important for social workers to be knowledgeable of their communities.
Second: Evaluate the community where you live in two of the categories listed below. Identify the strengths (things your area may be doing well to address the issue) and needs (why is it an issue, what are the stats, what is its impact on the community) associated with both categories. Data and factual information should be provided to support need. Select two categories from the list of social issues below:
· Medical care/facilities and services
· Mental health services
· Crime
· Homelessness rate (adults, children, families)
· Substance abuse
· Poverty
· School systems
· Environmental Issues
Third: Discuss where social workers are employed in your community. Consider settings such as schools, hospitals, prisons, detention facilities, nursing homes, social service agencies, afterschool programs, Head Start, Veteran’s services, mental health agencies, etc. Name specific places. For instance, Freedom 424, an anti-trafficking organization in Forest, VA. employs social workers. Saying an anti-trafficking organization would not be enough information.
At least 3 community/environment or government websites, databases, etc. should be cited, for a minimum of 3 sources. There is not a maximum number of sources. Please follow the instructions carefully, use the template provided, and use current APA format. Area: Hopkinsville, Kentucky
