Five-Stage NAP Process

1. Information Gathering
The Center For Neighborhoods collects 2000 Census demographic data on the neighborhood from the U.S. Census Bureau’s website. Census information is collected on housing and population data. Examples of the statistical data in each NAP include household income, occupation, the number of owner-occupied housing units, and rental housing.

In addition to gathering Census data, the Center For Neighborhoods provides a visual inventory of the neighborhood by taking photographs throughout the neighborhood. These photos are used to identify and capture characteristic features of the neighborhood, such as commonalities in architecture or historic landmarks.

2. Resident Survey
Residents take a Quality of Life survey to measure opinions and perceptions of their neighborhood. They rate items such as safety from crime or access to TARC on a four point scale of poor, fair, good, or excellent. The survey includes questions related to the availability of services in the neighborhood, reasons why residents might stay or move away, and open-ended opportunities to voice what things they like best and what major problems they feel the neighborhood is facing. The Resident Quality of Life Surveys are made available online through Survey Monkey (an online survey management tool) and also in hard copy format. The Center For Neighborhoods NAP Snapshot Team compiles the survey results.

3. Community Workshop
A community workshop is an open public meeting within the neighborhood for all residents to share their thoughts and ideas for how to improve their surroundings. Neighborhood leaders organize the workshop, determine the best location, time, and date. The Center For Neighborhoods NAP Team provides residents with a preview of each Neighborhood Snapshot at the respective community workshop session. Each preview includes the Census data, photographic analysis, and survey results.

During the community workshop, residents identify:

• Landmarks on a large map
• Assets (physical, social, etc.)
• Issues (concerns, both social and physical)
• "What if" actions and strategies to tackle issues and concerns
• By dot vote, residents prioritize problems and develop an Action Matrix for moving forward with making the positive change they desire to see.

4. Department of Neighborhoods Review
After the community workshop, the Center For Neighborhoods NAP Snapshot Team compiles the results of the workshop into a summary report. Photos of the workshop and the final action matrix are combined with the Census data and results of the quality of life survey. This comprehensive document is submitted to the Department of Neighborhoods for review, comments, and revisions.

5. Final Document
The Center For Neighborhoods NAP Snapshot Team makes final revisions. Completed NAP Snapshots are turned over to the Department of Neighborhoods for distribution to residents of the neighborhood.