Aggregate Community Windshield Survey: A Description and Analysis
Introduction:
The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive description and analysis of an aggregate community through a windshield survey. The aggregate community chosen for this project is Jackson Heights, a diverse neighborhood located in the borough of Queens, New York City. In this paper, the name, geographical location, size, population, brief history, and basic vital statistics of Jackson Heights will be described. Additionally, the reasons for selecting this particular aggregate for the Capstone project will be explained. This paper will also include key observations made during the windshield survey, including the age and condition of homes, location of parks and recreational areas, presence of businesses, transportation systems, and the demographics of the community.
Description of the Aggregate:
Jackson Heights, a name derived from the historical figure President Andrew Jackson, is located in the northwestern part of Queens, NY. It covers an area of approximately 1.5 square miles and is bounded by Roosevelt Avenue to the north, Junction Boulevard to the east, and 84thStreet to the west. The neighborhood is characterized by its diverse population, consisting of primarily working-class families and immigrant communities from countries such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Colombia, and Ecuador.
According to the latest census data, the population of Jackson Heights is estimated to be around 100,000 residents. The neighborhood has a rich history, with its development dating back to the early 20th century. It was originally designed as a garden city concept, with the aim of providing affordable housing and lush green spaces for middle-class families.
Basic vital statistics of the aggregate reveal important health indicators. The crude birth rate in Jackson Heights is approximately 12 per 1000 population, which is lower than the national average of 14.6 per 1000 population. The infant mortality rate is 5.6 per 1000 live births, which is slightly higher than the national average of 5.2 per 1000 live births. The life expectancy at birth for residents of Jackson Heights is 81 years, which is higher than the national average of 78.8 years.
The leading causes of death in the community are cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and respiratory diseases. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding the health needs of the diverse population in Jackson Heights in order to develop effective interventions and policies that address the specific health challenges faced by the community.
Reasons for selecting this aggregate for the Capstone project:
There are several reasons why Jackson Heights was chosen as the aggregate for the Capstone project. Firstly, the neighborhood’s diverse population presents an opportunity to explore health disparities and cultural competence in healthcare delivery. By focusing on this aggregate, we can gain insights into the unique health needs of different ethnic and cultural groups and develop strategies to promote health equity.
Secondly, Jackson Heights is known for its strong sense of community and grassroots activism. The neighborhood is home to various community organizations and advocacy groups that work towards improving the quality of life for its residents. Examining the community engagement and social determinants of health in Jackson Heights can provide valuable lessons for community development and empowerment in other settings.
Furthermore, the neighborhood’s proximity to academic institutions and healthcare facilities offers opportunities for collaboration and research partnerships. By working closely with stakeholders in Jackson Heights, this Capstone project can contribute to evidence-based practice and policy development in addressing the health needs of the community.
In conclusion, Jackson Heights, a diverse neighborhood in Queens, NY, has been selected as the aggregate for the Capstone project. This community presents a unique opportunity to explore health disparities, cultural competence, and community engagement. The vital statistics and demographic information collected from the windshield survey will provide a comprehensive understanding of the health needs of the aggregate. This analysis will guide the development of interventions and policies to improve the health outcomes of the community.