Mount Prospect surveying residents on diversity issues
Mount Prospect census data show that 31 percent of the village's population is foreign born and 36 percent speaks a language other than English at home. Village officials are conducting a survey to evaluate how effectively the village engages its various populations.
The survey is the next step in an effort that began in 2016, when the village board made the development of a diverse community outreach strategy a top priority. Officials first engaged community stakeholders including schools, library, park districts and religious organizations to solicit input on how to better engage with and serve residents.
The survey is available online at www.mountprospect.org/resident-diversity-engagement-survey. Paper copies with postage paid return envelopes are available at village hall, the police department, the Community Connections Center and the library. The survey is available in English, Spanish, Polish and Korean.
"The survey is just one piece of an ongoing initiative to determine how we can better reach all of the residents of Mount Prospect," Julie Kane, director of the Human Services Department, said in a news release. "We have a very diverse population in terms of language, culture, race, religion and physical ability. Involving everyone in our community offers a unique opportunity for acceptance and prosperity."
Officials said they want to get survey responses by the end of December to help:
• Determine the needs in the community;
• Develop ways to improve access to services;
• Understand how cultural differences influence learning and communication;
• Increase outreach through partnerships and events;
• Determine what resources are needed to connect with all residents;
• Broaden a sense of community; and
• Provide people opportunities to volunteer and serve.
"The goal of the survey is to understand the needs of our community and how we can further strengthen inclusiveness in Mount Prospect, which is essential to our success," Mayor Arlene Juracek said.