Institute for Social Science Research

This project was developed to conduct an assessment of the current and anticipated social services needs of the citizens of Shelby County, Alabama. The assessment included interviews with key community leaders and directors of key social service agencies and a survey of the general population of Shelby County. Using a mixed-methods approach, the results from the interviews and surveys were synthesized to 1) identify how key informants visualized the future of social services, 2) identify areas where there were gaps in service provision, and 3) help identify critical areas of focus for the coming years. The information obtained from these various perspectives can assist in planning for meeting the needs of the Shelby County community.