Community Service Database Making Progress

The city of Kalamazoo is one step closer to having a streamlined system that organizes the areas major human services into one, decipherable database. While systems like the 211 and Kalamazoo Library's Public Library's Local Information Directory do excellent work in directing residents to services the they need, there appeared to be a large gap between the two databases in establishing one, comprehensive resource for the community.

The Poverty Reduction Initiative, in collaboration with WMU's Lewis Walker institute, saw this as valuable opportunity to improve upon the services that currently exist. Instead of recreating an entire network, the PRI is working with both 211 and the Kalamazoo library to consolidate these two databases in to one, making it easier for residents to access it. We are also looking to improve upon the navigational methods, making the it easier to search and find resources in need.

A great example of resource mapping is the Washington DC's Food Finder, which uses google maps to locate services closes to where a person resides. Where the Kalamazoo database will differ is that it will service areas beyond food help to its residents, making it even more valuable to residents.

Mapping this complicated and scrambled maze of services will not be easy, but the results will surely be realized in there impact upon both residents and human service organizations. Having this database will not only allow residents to access them easier, but also allow for service organizations that already exist to better understand where to direct their time and energy.

Look forward to seeing more updates on the database this fall, where the research will begin to transform into a interface for the Kalamazoo community.