2014 Community Assessment

Table of Contents
Executive Summary 4
What is 2014 Community Assessment? 4
Research activities 5
Findings 7

Acknowledgements 11

Introduction 14
Background 14
Activities 14

McLean County Profile 16
Description 16
Age 18
Race & ethnicity 21
Educational attainment 22
Households and families 23

Methodology 28
Research activities 28
Advisory council 28
Household survey 28
Focus groups 37
Key informant interviews 38
Secondary data 40
Limitations 40

Findings 42
Health and human service profile 42
Income & poverty 52
Housing & homelessness 70
Employment 86
Health & health care 99
Child & youth development & education 123
Seniors, caregivers, and people with disabilities 141
Transportation 153
Criminal justice 160
Common themes & concluding remarks 174

Appendices 179
Appendix A: Household Survey Cover Letter
Appendix B: Household Survey Instrument
Appendix C: Key Informant Consent Form
Appendix D: Key Informant Interview Instrument
Appendix E: Focus Group Participant Consent Form
Table of Contents

Appendix F: Focus Group Participant Consent Form Spanish Version
Appendix G: Sample Focus Group Guide
Appendix H: Sample Focus Group Recruitment Flyer
Appendix I: Qualitative Coding Scheme
Appendix J: Illinois State University Stevenson Center Assessment Report
Appendix K: University of Illinois College of Law Community Preservation Clinic
PIPP Survey Instrument
Appendix L: University of Illinois College of Law Community Preservation Clinic
Focus Groups and Survey Results Summary

1. Executive Summary

2014 Community Assessment

4
In 2013, multiple stakeholders asked United Way of Mclean
County (UWMC) to lead an assessment to look at needs
and resources in the health and human service system in
McLean County, Illinois. The last county-wide assessment
was published in 2000. The social issues and
demographics in McLean County have changed
substantially since then, calling for a current gauge of the
needs and impact of social programs. To accomplish the 2014 Community Assessment, UWMC
collaborated with the Applied Social Research Unit (ASRU) of Illinois State University, students,
and community members.
To help complete assessment activities, the 2014 Community Assessment utilized
students from Illinois State Universitys Stevenson Center for Community and Economic
Development and the University of Illinois, Community Preservation Clinic. An Advisory Council,
comprising more than 22 community stakeholders, was created to oversee and direct the
methodology and implementation of the project. Thirteen of those stakeholders contributed
funds to the projects completion.
The research generated from the 2014 Community Assessment will help focus efforts
across the county to address common issues and support health and human service planning
over the next five years. Agencies, organizations, businesses, and government entities can use
assessment data for strategic planning and reporting requirements. Compiled research will
support development of the Consolidated Housing and Community Development Plans
qualifying Bloomington and Normal for Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) grant funding in 2015.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2010 report
defined a healthy community as one that continuously creates and improves both its physical
and social environments, helping people to support one another in aspects of daily life and to
develop to their fullest potential. To create this environment, residents must have adequate
access to services, information, and resources. In a healthy community, services are
coordinated and planned to make the best possible use of resources and meet the widest range
of needs. Residents are community assets who bring diverse talents and viewpoints to work for
the collective good. Several factors strongly shape and influence our lives. Caregiving, quality
education, adequate housing, meaningful employment, access to job training, efficient
transportation, clean and safe environments, and access to health education and services are
determinants of our and the communitys overall wellbeing.
With these factors in mind, 2014 Community Assessment research was developed to
broadly include health care and traditional social services provided in McLean County.
Additional services offered to the entire population are encompassed within the research but are
not as closely examined. However, to provide a comprehensive picture of resources and needs
in the county, providers from a large spectrum of services contributed to the findings. The 2014
Community Assessment includes the entire population and geographical area of McLean
County and considers both rural and urban needs and resources.

WHAT IS 2014
COMMUNITY
ASSESSMENT?


5
The 2014 Community Assessment used a mixed research
approach that incorporated both quantitative and qualitative
methods to build a picture of McLean Countys resources and
needs for health and human services. Research activities
included:
Review of public data provided by government agencies, local reports, directories and
planning documents.
A randomized survey of 16,000 McLean County households, yielding 1,606 responses.
12 focus groups representing a wide range of issues, client populations and service
providers associated with health and human services in Mclean County.
29 key informant interviews of McLean County leaders and service providers
representing a range of perspectives, interests and expertise.
In all, 1,962 McLean County residents participated directly in the 2014 Community Assessment.
Specific information about these activities can be found in the Methodology section of the full
report, which is available on the UWMC website at http://www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-
assessment/.
Household survey

A seven-page survey was mailed to 16,000 McLean County adult residents (18 years of
age and older). Reminder postcards were mailed to all survey recipients and follow-up
telephone calls were made to selected rural residents who had not yet returned a survey
through mail. The survey asked questions on the following health and human service topics:
health (physical, mental, oral), access to healthcare and prescription medication, services for
seniors and people with disabilities, youth issues, civic engagement, employment, transportation
usage, economic status, housing, health and human services accessed and satisfaction with
those services, and general perceptions of local issues and needs. The survey also inquired
about basic demographic characteristics (e.g., age, race, ethnicity, educational attainment,
language spoken, household size and income). The survey concluded with two open-ended
questions asking respondents what they like most about McLean County and what they are
most concerned about in McLean County. A copy of the household survey instrument can be
found in Appendix B.

Key informant interviews

UWMC and students from Illinois State University Stevenson Center conducted a total of
20 key informant interviews and collected nine key informant responses from SurveyMonkey, an
online survey tool. For the 2014 Community Assessment, a key informant was defined as a
formal or informal leader in McLean County or at a local agency/organization, or as an expert in
the topic area or population of interest. Key informants were asked the following questions:

1. What are your responsibilities for health and human services in the County?
2. Please describe the population with which you most often work in McLean County. What
are their biggest challenges?
3. What are the strengths of McLean County's health and human service delivery system?
Why?
4. What are the weaknesses of McLean County's health and human service delivery
system? Why?
RESEARCH
ACTIVITIES


6
5. What changes have you observed in provision of health and human services in McLean
County?
6. Can you identify gaps in health and human service provision in McLean County?
7. Can you identify duplications in health and human service provision in McLean County?
8. Can you identify barriers to access and/or utilization of health and human services in
McLean County?
9. Can you identify under-used or un-recognized resources for health and human service
provision in McLean County?
10. How can health and human service delivery in McLean County be improved?
11. What havent I asked today that I should have asked? What additional comments would
you like to make?

Due to limited staff capacity, 26 additional key informants were invited to respond to the
same questions through a SurveyMonkey survey. Nine individuals responded to the online,
open-ended survey.

Focus groups

The 2014 Community Assessment utilized focus groups, facilitated small group
discussions, to add richness and depth to the household survey and secondary data collected.
UWMC collaborated with the Illinois State University Stevenson Center and University of Illinois
College of Law to conduct 12 focus groups consisting of 92 service providers and consumers.
The focus groups covered these areas:

Health
Seniors
Homeless
Caregivers of People with a Disability
Youth Advocates
Non-English Speaking
Rural Neighborhood
West-Bloomington Neighborhood
East-Bloomington Neighborhood
Normal Neighborhood
Financial concerns (2 groups)

Secondary Data

Secondary data collection began in September, 2013 and includes over 60 different
sources including local, state, and federal government to academic journals and newspapers.
The most frequently cited source is the U.S. Census Bureau. Secondary data was collected for
each section of the 2014 Community Assessment prior to integrating survey, key informant, and
focus group data. This allowed UWMC staff to compare 2014 Community Assessment data with
existing data. In addition, the 2014 Community Assessment also frequently integrates
information from PATHs online database, the McLean County Health Department, and the
McLean County Regional Planning Commission.



7

A total of 1,962 McLean County residents participated in the 2014
Community Assessment. The following tables show a snapshot of
major themes that emerged from all four data sources: household
survey, focus groups, key informants, and secondary data. These themes are highlighted in the
Executive Summary because they were mentioned frequently, came up through multiple data
sources, were statistically significant or alarming, and/or simply reflected a response to a
specific question.

The 2014 Community Assessment aimed to gather information on the following:

Community challenges/issues
Strengths in the health and human service system
Weaknesses in the health and human service system
Gaps in services
Duplications of services
Under-used or unrecognized resources/services
Recommendations/Opportunities for improvement

The data below are organized by challenges and strengths, as expressed by the
participants. Challenges consist of community issues, weaknesses in the health and human
service system, gaps in services, and duplicate services. Strengths include strengths in the
health and human service system, under-used services, and opportunities for improvement. The
data are not displayed in any particular order. For example, challenges at the top of the list are
not more important than those at the bottom of the list.

Figure 1.1 Income and Poverty
Challenges Strengths
Unawareness of poverty Most pleased with Volunteer Income Tax
Assistance (VITA) services
Difficult to get off of public aid Lower percentage of people under 18 in
poverty than state and nation
Applying for and maintaining public aid is
cumbersome
New, collaborative efforts
Median income higher than state and
nation

FINDINGS


8

Figure 1.2 Housing and Homelessness
Expensive rental housing Many services for people experiencing
homelessness
Limited subsidized housing Caring community members
Long waits for vouchers 2/3
rds
of McLean County residents are
homeowners
Shelters at capacity
Requests for emergency funds exceeds
funds available

Figure 1.3 Employment
Access to good paying jobs for low-
skilled workers
Many high-paying jobs exist in the
community
Need for skill training Health care support and health
practitioner occupations are fastest
growing fields
Many barriers to full-time work (health
issues, caregiver, transportation)
Unemployment rate lowering since 2010
Discriminatory hiring processes

Figure 1.4 Health and Health Care
Poverty is a risk factor for health Health services for people with low
income
Rural residents have difficulty accessing
health care (transportation)
Increased attention to mental health
Availability of psychiatrists (particularly
for children)
Community health assessments and
health improvement plans
Funding and coordination for mental
health services

Access to preventative oral health
services



9
Overweight and obesity
Figure 1.5 Child and Youth Development and Education
Additional career development and
training opportunities
Strong educational system
More affordable, afterschool youth
program options
Existing afterschool programming
Graduation rates dropping Many youth volunteering and giving back
to community
Parental engagement

Figure 1.6 Seniors, Caregivers, and People with Disabilities
Respite care for caregivers Many helpful, supportive organizations
Unawareness of available services
(individual and provider)
High satisfaction with K-12 schools,
supportive services, and senior social
groups
Isolation Fewer than 3% of survey respondents
who needed services, did not receive
those services
More permanent, supportive housing
Stigma as a barrier to employment

Figure 1.7 Transportation
Transportation outside of McLean
County
Cooperation between transportation
service providers
Transportation for people <60 with no
medical need
Connect Transit ridership grew 21%
between 2009 and 2013
Inconvenient bus times Planning for alternate transportation
Need for expanded bus routes
Car breakdowns are major barrier for
getting to work



10

Figure 1.8 Criminal J ustice
Cycle of incarceration for people with
mental illness
Consideration of expansion of housing
for people with mental illness
Perception of high crime & drug use Crime rate dropping
Hispanic population racism Problem solving courts
Ex-offender reintegration into society
(e.g., finding housing and employment)

Figure 1.9 Common Themes
Collaboration & cooperation among
health and human service providers
Many health and human services
Awareness of available services Dedicated individuals in health and
human service system
Poverty as a risk factor
Transportation
2. Acknowledgements


11
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The 2014 Community Assessment team
and community partners express
sincere gratitude to the McLean County
residents, health and human service provides, and local experts who participated in the 2014
Community Assessment. Nearly 2,000 individuals offered their thoughts and opinions on the
health and human service system in McLean County between August 2013 and April 2014.
Many individuals and organizations that helped with recruitment efforts and offered space to
hold focus groups. Residents, volunteers, student groups, and organizations helped to make
the 2014 McLean County Community Assessment possible.

Funders

Thirteen organizations provided funding for the 2014 Community Assessment. Many
more organizations provided in-kind donation of time, talent, and resources.

Bloomington Township
Busey Bank
City of Bloomington
Commerce Bank
Country Financial
East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging
Heartland Bank
Illinois Prairie Community Foundation
McLean County Health Department
Pohlmann Family Development Grant
State Farm
Town of Normal
United Way of McLean County

Advisory Council

Over 22 community partners representing a variety of sectors (health and human
services, education, business, financial, government and nonprofit) convened to provide
guidance on the development, methodology, report, and dissemination of the 2014 Community
Assessment. The 2014 Community Assessment Advisory Council includes these individuals:

Todd Anderson, Busey Bank
Phani Aytam, Multicultural Leadership Program
Dayna Brown, Unit 5
Stephanie Dutko, Commerce Bank
Rich Farr, Normal Township
Sally Gambacorta, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center
Myra Gordon, Illinois Prairie Community Foundation
Leslie Hanson, Stevenson Elementary School, District 87
John Hesse, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center
Walt Howe, McLean County Health Department
Aimee Ingalls, University of Illinois Extension
Mark Jontry, Regional Office of Education
Ben Jurgens, Town of Normal
Diane Lanier, Heartland Bank and Trust Company
2. Acknowledgements


12
Charlie Moore, Chamber of Commerce
Meridith Nelson, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center
Gary Niehaus, Unit 5
Mike O'Donnell, East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging
Barry Reilly, District 87
Deb Skillrud, Bloomington Township
Lonnie Smith, State Farm
Ken Springer, Economic Development Council
Pete Stroyan, Country Financial
Amanda Timm, East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging
Sharon Walker, City of Bloomington
Bill Wasson, McLean County Government
Karen Zangerle, PATH

Methodology Subgroup

A subgroup of local experts was convened to assist with development of the Household
Survey instrument and other Assessment protocols. This subgroup includes the following
individuals:

Meg Backas, Childrens Home and Aid
Frank Beck, Illinois State University
Joan Brehm, Illinois State University
Ben Jurgens, Town of Normal
Sharon Mills, Illinois State University, Applied Social Research Unit
Peter Rankaitis, Project Oz
Casey Snedden, City of Bloomington
Ken Springer, Economic Development Council
Sharon Walker, City of Bloomington

Illinois State University Stevenson Center

Graduate students with the Illinois State University Stevenson Center developed and
facilitated four focus groups and five key informant interviews answering, What factors have the
strongest impact upon communal and individual well-being in different neighborhoods in
McLean County? Results from the graduate students efforts are incorporated into the 2014
Community Assessment final report. The full report from the Stevenson Center graduate course
can be found in Appendix J. Thank you to the course professor and students:

Joan Brehm, professor
Christina Davila
Rayma Kumaran
Calvin LeSueuer
Brett Michaelson
Nay Petrucelli
Katie Raynor
Daniel Sheets-Poling
Katie Simpson
Matthew Tomlin
Rachelle A. Wilson
2. Acknowledgements


13
University of Illinois College of Law - Community Preservation Clinic

The University Illinois College of Law Community Preservation Clinic facilitated two
focus groups on financial concerns and conducted a survey of 235 Percentage of Income
Payment Plan (PIPP) applicants at Mid Central Community Action to gather information on
personal finance management strategies. Thank you to the clinic director and these students:

Stacey Tutt, Director, Community Preservation Clinic
Elizabeth Deshaies
Jennifer Warner

Volunteers

Some focus groups would not have been possible or as successful without the help of
community volunteers acting as facilitators or note takers. Others who volunteered their time
and resources to recruit participants and host focus groups are not listed below to preserve
confidentiality. Thank you to the following individuals:

Juan Garcia, State Farm
Lori Kimbrough, PATH
Katie Simpson, Illinois State University student

Illinois State University Applied Social Research Unit

Thank you to Sharon Mills, Applied Social Research Unit director, for her guidance and
support throughout the development, implementation, and dissemination of the 2014
Community Assessment. Ms. Mills served as a consultant for the project and provided
invaluable input and work on all phases.


United Way of McLean County is grateful for the opportunity to serve as the main
facilitator of the 2014 Community Assessment and to provide McLean County with valuable
information about its residents and the health and human service system. UWMC staff
members, interns, and consultants completed these 2014 Community Assessment activities:
communicating with partners; project planning; proposal submission to the Illinois State
University Internal Review Board; development of research instruments and protocols;
household survey distribution; development of recruitment materials; volunteer training; focus
group and key informant interview facilitation; data review and analyses; and report writing,
editing, and dissemination. Thank you to these UWMC team members:

Ashley Long
Nicole Smith
Matthew Tomlin
Julie Ornee
Hadi Diaby
Brennan Wielgopolan
Gina Mandros
3. Introduction


14
In 2013, multiple stakeholders asked United Way of
McLean County (UWMC) to lead a county-wide
assessment to look at needs and resources in the health
and human service system. The last county-wide assessment was published in 2000. The social
issues and demographics in McLean County have changed substantially since then, calling for a
current gauge of the needs and impact of social programs. To accomplish the 2014 Community
Assessment, UWMC collaborated with the Applied Social Research Unit (ASRU) of Illinois State
University, students, and community members.
To help complete assessment activities, 2014 Community Assessment utilized students
from Illinois State Universitys Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development
and the University of Illinois, Community Preservation Clinic. An Advisory Council, comprising
more than 22 community stakeholders, was created to direct the projects methodology and
implementation of the project. Thirteen of those stakeholders contributed funds to the projects
completion.
The research generated from 2014 Community Assessment will help focus efforts
across the county to address common issues and support health and human service planning
over the next five years. Agencies, organizations, businesses, and government entities can use
assessment data for strategic planning and reporting requirements. Compiled research will
support development of the Consolidated Housing and Community Development Plans
qualifying Bloomington and Normal for Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) grant funding in 2015.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2010 report
defined a healthy community as one that continuously creates and improves both its physical
and social environments, helping people to support one another in aspects of daily life and to
develop to their fullest potential. To create this environment, residents must have adequate
access to services, information, and resources. In a healthy community, services are
coordinated and planned to make the best possible use of resources and meet the widest range
of needs. Residents are community assets who bring diverse talents and viewpoints to work for
the collective good. Several factors strongly shape and influence our lives. Caregiving, quality
education, adequate housing, meaningful employment, access to job training, efficient
transportation, clean and safe environments, and access to health education and services are
determinants of our and the communitys overall wellbeing.
With these factors in mind, 2014 Community Assessment research was developed to
broadly include health care and traditional social services provided in McLean County.
Additional services offered to the entire population are encompassed within the research but are
not as closely examined. However, to provide a comprehensive picture of resources and needs
in the county, providers from a large spectrum of services contributed to the findings. The 2014
Community Assessment includes the entire population and geographical area of McLean
County and considers both rural and urban needs and resources.

approach including both quantitative and qualitative methods to
build a picture of McLean Countys resources and needs for
health and human services. The 2014 Community Assessment protocols were reviewed and
approved through Illinois State Universitys Institutional Review Board and the University of
Illinois Internal Review Board. This approval process ensures the 2014 Community Assessment
was conducted on ethical values and principles. Research activities included:

ACTIVITIES
BACKGROUND
3. Introduction


15
Review of public data provided by government agencies, local reports, directories and
planning documents;
A randomized survey of 16,000 McLean County households, yielding 1,606 responses;
12 focus groups representing a wide range of issues, client populations and service
providers associated with health and human services in Mclean County; and,
29 key informant interviews with McLean County leaders and service providers
representing a range of perspectives, interest and expertise.

In all, at least 1,962 McLean County residents participated directly in the 2014
Community Assessment. Specific information about these activities can be found in the
Methodology section of this report, which is available on the UWMC website at
http://www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-assessment/.

4. McLean County Profile


16
McLean County was organized in April of 1831 with a
population of approximately 2,400.
1
Today, it has a
population of more than 172,000.
2
By land area, it is the
largest county in Illinois (762,240 acres). It is located near the geographic center of the State on
some of the most agriculturally productive land in the world. The City of Bloomington, the
County Seat of McLean County, is approximately 125 miles southwest of Chicago, 155 miles
northeast of St. Louis, and 64 miles northeast of Springfield. Bloomington is adjacent to the
Town of Normal, the second largest municipality in McLean County. Commonly referred to as
the Twin Cities, Bloomington-Normal had an estimated combined population of roughly
131,500 in 2012 with the remaining County population residing in many other cities, towns, and
rural areas.
3
Bloomington-Normal is connected to the rest of the country via Interstates 39, 55,
and 74, US Route 51, State Route 9, Amtrak, and the Central Illinois Regional Airport. Its major
employment sectors include: insurance and financial services, education, agriculture,
government, and manufacturing.

McLean County population on the rise

As the population increases, there will be increased demand on all services in the
McLean County. Water, education, health care, transportation, employment, housing, criminal
justice and disposal services will be affected, among other services. Public and social service
providers must develop plans to accommodate growth. McLean Countys population continues
to exceed predictions for growth. During the years 1990 to 2012, the population rose 33 percent;
from 129,180 to 172,281. In 2012, approximately 89,000 residents were female (52%) and
83,000 were male (48%).
4
The McLean County Regional Planning Commission predicts the
County population will rise an additional 36 percent over the next 21 years, reaching 234,280 by
2035.
5

Figure 4.1 lists the municipalities that make up McLean County, their population counts,
and their population change from 1990 to 2012. A majority of McLean Countys population
growth over the last two decades occurred within Bloomington-Normal. With 131,570 residents
in 2012, the Twin Cities accounted for 76 percent of the McLean Countys population.
6

Consistent with long-term trends, growth in Bloomington and Normal continued to be strong,
increasing at 50 percent and 35 percent respectively between 1990 and 2012. However, this
growth did not occur evenly. Similar to trends throughout the country, population levels
remained the same or declined in central urban areas, while suburban growth was high. The
McLean County Regional Planning Commission predicts the population of Bloomington-Normal
will be 184,350 by 2035.
7

Growth has also been strong in the municipalities surrounding Bloomington-Normal (see
Figure 4.1). Many residents in these communities commute to work in Bloomington-Normal.
Between 1990 and 2012, the populations of Hudson, Heyworth, and Downs increased by 84
percent, 77 percent, and 62 percent respectively. Meanwhile, rural communities located further
from the Twin Cities experienced a decline in population over the same period. Of these, Anchor
experienced the largest decline, a 17 percent drop in population. Both Towanda and Cooksville
experienced a 12 percent drop in population (see Figure 4.1).

DESCRIPTION


17

Figure 4.1 Population counts, percent of total population, and changes by
municipality in McLean County, 1990 to 2012
Total Population
Change, 1990 to
2012
Community 1990 2000 2010 2012 Count Percent
Hudson 1006 1510 1838 1848 842 84%
Heyworth 1629 2431 2841 2880 1251 77%
Downs 620 776 1005 1005 385 62%
Bloomington 51889 64808 76610 77733 25844 50%
Normal 40023 45386 52497 53837 13814 35%
McLean County 129180 150433 169572 172281 43101 33%
Carlock 418 456 552 555 137 33%
LeRoy 2777 3332 3560 3585 808 29%
Colfax 854 989 1061 1062 208 24%
Danvers 981 1183 1154 1155 174 18%
Lexington 1810 1912 2060 2069 259 14%
Gridley 1304 1411 1432 1454 150 12%
Chenoa 1732 1845 1785 1788 56 3%
McLean 819 808 830 829 10 1%
Areas outside listed
cities and towns
20029 20294 19404 19534 -495 -2%
Arrowsmith 313 298 294 296 -17 -5%
Stanford 648 670 596 594 -54 -8%
Saybrook 767 764 693 692 -75 -10%
Towanda 543 493 480 478 -65 -12%
Bellflower 405 408 357 358 -47 -12%
Cooksville 211 213 182 186 -25 -12%
Ellsworth 224 271 195 196 -28 -13%
Anchor 178 175 146 147 -31 -17%
Source: Applied Social Research Unit at Illinois State University. March, 2000, Assessment 2000:
Health & Human Services in McLean County: Bloomington, Illinois, published by United Way of
McLean County, Accessed as pdf; U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.) American FactFinder Community
Facts: McLean County, IL. Retrieved September 20, 2013 from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml

Figure 4.2 Estimated 2012 population counts and percent of total for
McLean County
Community Estimated
Percent of
McLean County
estimated
population
Cumulative
percent of
McLean County
Bloomington 77733 45.12% 45.12%
Normal 53837 31.25% 76.37%
Areas outside these
listed cities and towns
19534 11.34% 87.71%
LeRoy 3585 2.08% 89.79%


18
AGE
Heyworth 2880 1.67% 91.46%
Lexington 2069 1.20% 92.66%
Hudson 1848 1.07% 93.73%
Chenoa 1788 1.04% 94.77%
Gridley 1454 0.84% 95.61%
Danvers 1155 0.67% 96.28%
Colfax 1062 0.62% 96.90%
Downs 1005 0.58% 97.48%
McLean 829 0.48% 97.96%
Saybrook 692 0.40% 98.36%
Stanford 594 0.34% 98.70%
Carlock 555 0.32% 99.02%
Towanda 478 0.28% 99.30%
Bellflower 358 0.21% 99.51%
Arrowsmith 296 0.17% 99.68%
Ellsworth 196 0.11% 99.79%
Cooksville 186 0.11% 99.90%
Anchor 147 0.09% 100%
Total McLean County 172281 1
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: McLean
County, IL. Retrieved September 20, 2013, from

Migration flows

The U.S. Census Bureau publishes data on migration patterns through an online
mapping tool called Census Flows Mapper. The tool shows net, outbound, and inbound
migration for McLean County based on 2006-2010 census data. During 2006-2010, 3,010
people moved to McLean County from a different state; 11,495 moved to McLean County from
another county in Illinois; and 848 people moved to the County from abroad. Also, there was a
large outbound migration: 4,732 people moved to a different state and 5,760 people moved to
another county in Illinois. Inbound and outbound migration in McLean County netted 4,861 new
County residents. Cook County represents the largest net migration to McLean County from
another Illinois County equaling 1,733 people (999 females and 734 males). This group
consisted of 1,411 people whose race is White alone, 358 people of Hispanic or Latino origin,
and 108 people whose race is Black or African American alone. A majority of former Cook
County residents (64% or 1,117 people) were ages 18 to 19, and another fifth (23% or 393
people), were ages 20 to 24. The next largest age group was 40 to 44 year olds, who
represented 7.2 percent of the net migration from Cook County.
8

An economically healthy community includes enough working-age people to
support the retired and non-working age population. As age characteristics
change in McLean County, demands for services change.

A high percentage of young adults

Figure 4.3 shows that McLean County has a higher percentage of 18 to 24 year-olds and


19
a slightly lower percentage of people age 65 and over compared to the rest of the state and
nation. In 2012, 18 percent of McLean County residents were between 18 and 24 years of age,
compared to 9.7 percent of Illinois residents, and 10 percent of the United States overall. The
large young adult population is due to the higher education institutions in Bloomington-Normal
(Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College and Lincoln
College). Illinois State University is the largest higher education institution in McLean County
with an undergraduate enrollment of 18,257 in fall 2013.
9
Illinois Wesleyan Universitys
undergraduate enrollment was 2,013 that same semester.
10
Although they represent a
consistently high percentage of the population, the 18 to 24 year old population is largely
transient. Many come to Bloomington-Normal to attain a degree and then leave. Still, this group
is an asset in the county for the volunteer service, energy, and economy they bring.

Figure 4.3 Age distribution of McLean County, 2012

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012,
2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: United States, Illinois, and McLean
County, IL. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_1
2_1YR_NP01&prodType=narrative_profile

Median age is increasing

Despite the high percentage of people ages 18 to 24, the county as a whole is getting
older. The median age increased from 30.5 years in 2000 to 32.7 years in 2012. As a
percentage of the total population, individuals between the ages of 25 and 64 increased slightly
from 48.2 percent in 2000 to 49.1 percent in 2012, from 72,520 to 84,653 people.
11
Median age
will likely continue to increase, given the anticipated rise in the 65 and older population. As
people of the Baby Boomer generation have begun entering retirement, demand on health and
senior services has increased and is expected to continue in the future.
12
The number of
individuals in McLean County age 65 and older rose from 14,621 in 2000 to 18,676 in 2012. In
2012, there were 40,524 residents between the ages of 45 and 64, accounting for 23.5 percent
of the county population.
13
Thus, a significant portion of the population is expected to reach
retirement age over the next twenty years (see Figure 4.4).

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
Under 18 18 to 24 25 to 44 45 to 64 65 and
over
McLean County
Illinois
United States


20
Figure 4.4 McLean County population by age in 2000, 2012, and 2030 (projected)

Sources: Age data gathered from three sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). ACS DEMOGRAPHIC AND
HOUSING ESTIMATES, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, Illinois.
Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP05&prod
Type=table ; U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: McLean County,
Illinois 2000, Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF 1) 100-Percent Data. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=DEC_00_SF1_DP1&prodT
ype=table ; State of Illinois Data Portal. (n.d.). DCEO County Population Projections. Springfield, IL: Author.
Retrieved from https://data.illinois.gov/Economics/DCEO-County-Population-Projections/h3bx-hbbh

The projections to 2030 for McLean Countys population by age are from the Illinois
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and are based on data from the 2000
Census. Perhaps most notable about the 2030 projection is the increase in the 65 and over
population. In 2012, nearly 11 percent of the population was 65 and over, and is projected to
increase to 18 percent of the population by 2030 (see Figure 4.5).

0.00%
2.00%
4.00%
6.00%
8.00%
10.00%
12.00%
14.00%
16.00%
2000
2012
2030 (Projected)


21
RACE &
ETHNICITY
Figure 4.5 Age distribution of McLean County in 2012 and 2030
(projected)

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). ACS DEMOGRAPHIC AND HOUSING
ESTIMATES, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County,
Illinois. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
2_1YR_DP05&prodType=table ; State of Illinois Data Portal. (n.d.). DCEO County
Population Projections. Springfield, IL. Retrieved from
https://data.illinois.gov/Economics/DCEO-County-Population-Projections/h3bx-hbbh

Black, Asian, and Hispanic and Latino populations
increasing

Though mostly White (84.5%), the population has become
increasingly diverse and has broadened the range of skills,
perspectives, experiences, and cultures in McLean County. (See Figure 4.6.) In 2012, most of
the countys residents (94%) were native residents of the United States and the majority of
these (72%) were born in Illinois. Of the 6 percent of foreign-born McLean County residents in
2012, 25 percent were naturalized U.S. citizens, and 76 percent entered the U.S. before 2010.
14

The Black population is the second largest racial group in McLean County, and
increased from six percent of the total population (or 9,025 people) in 2000 to 7.7 percent (or
13,229 people) in 2012 (see Figure 4.6). According to the Economic Development Council, the
Black population is projected to grow to 14,040 people by 2017.
15
U.S. Census data show this
population resides largely in Bloomingtons downtown, near west side, far west side (I-55), and
near south side (Evergreen Memorial Cemetery area), as well as in Normals north side (I-55).
16

The Asian population is also growing, from 2.1 percent (or 3,159 people) in 2000 to 4.5
percent (or 7,827 people) in 2012. U.S. Census data indicates that the Asian population is more
heavily concentrated in Bloomingtons south and east side, and in Normals north side.
17
Among
Asians in McLean County, the largest growth has occurred among Asian Indians. This group
grew from 1,290 persons in 2000 to 4,974 in 2012 (or from .9 to 2.9 percent of the countys
population).
18

The population of people of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity grew at a similar rate to the
Asian population, increasing from 2.5 percent in 2000 to 4.6 percent in 2012. This population is
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
19 and
under
20 to 24 25 to 44 45 to 64 65 and
over
2012
2030


22
EDUCATIONAL
ATTAINMENT
concentrated in six general areas in Bloomington-Normal. In Bloomington, these are the near
south side (South Hill), far south side (I-74), near west side (Downtown), far west side (I-55),
and the east side (Veterans Parkway). In Normal, the largest concentration of Latinos is on the
far north side (I-55). These areas are classified as low- and moderate-income by the U.S.
Census.
19

Figure 4.6 Racial and ethnic makeup of McLean Countys population, 2000,
2010, and 2012
Year 2000 2010 2012
Percent Number Percent Number Percent Number
Asian 2.10% 3,159 4.30% 7,292 4.50%
7,827
Black 6.20% 9,025 7.30% 12,738 7.70% 13,229
Hispanic or
Latino
2.50% 3,760 4.40% 7,461 4.60% 7,946
White 89.20% 133,885 84.30% 142,949 84.50% 145,652
Total
Population
100% 150,433 100.30% 169,572 101.30% 172,281
Sources: Data for years 2000 & 2010 from: McLean County Health Department and Community
Health Advisory Committee. (2012). The McLean County Community Health Plan (2012-2017).
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from
http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/600 ; Data for 2012 from: U.S. Census
Bureau. (2012). ACS DEMOGRAPHIC AND HOUSING ESTIMATES, 2012 American Community
Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, Illinois. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_
DP05&prodType=table

Languages spoken in the household

In McLean County in 2012, eight percent of people aged five or older spoke a language
other than English at home. Of this group, 37 percent spoke Spanish and 63 percent spoke
some other language. Over one-third of these residents (34% or 4,686 people) reported they did
not speak English very well.
20
Language spoken and cultural differences can present
challenges for providing and accessing goods and services. While 2014 Community
Assessment findings suggest organizations are becoming more culturally competent, their
need for translators and/or staff training requires resources. Non-English speakers may find it
difficult or even ineffective to navigate systems and services that do not offer sufficient
information in their native language.

Research indicates that educational attainment correlates
positively with an individuals overall health and earning
potential.
21
In McLean County, high school graduates and
those with an Associates degree or higher composed 75
percent of the population aged 25 years and older in 2012.
However, 4.7 percent of the McLean County population aged 25 years and older had less than
a high school diploma. As discussed in the Income and Poverty and Child & Youth Development
& Education sections, a variety of health and socioeconomic factors affect whether or not an
individual completes high school. Not completing high school can negatively impact health and
socioeconomic status later in life. In 2012, the total school enrollment in McLean County was
nearly 59,000. Enrollment comprises 6,900 nursery school and kindergarten students, 25,000
elementary or high school students, and 27,000 college or graduate school students.
22



23
HOUSEHOLDS
& FAMILIES
High educational attainment

As Figure 4.7 shows, nearly one in three people in McLean County have a Bachelors
degree which is well above state and national levels. The county also boasts a much lower
dropout rate at five percent compared to state and national levels, which were 12 and 14
percent respectively in 2012. County Health Rankings show a four-year high school graduation
rate of 85 percent in McLean County in 2014 compared to 84 percent in Illinois overall.
23

McLean Countys high educational attainment may explain, to some extent, its above average
median family and household income levels. Income, poverty, and employment are all affected
by educational attainment, and are discussed further in the Income and Poverty section.
24

Figure 4.7 Educational attainment of McLean Countys 25 and older population in
2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012 American
Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: United States, Illinois, and McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 23,
2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_NP01&prodT
ype=narrative_profile

Definition of family and household

Household and family characteristics such as location,
income level and size influence ones access to health
and human services. The U.S. Census defines a family as
a group of two people or more (one of whom is the householder) related by birth, marriage, or
adoption and residing together; all such people (including related subfamily members) are
considered as members of one family.
25
A household, meanwhile, consists of all the people
who occupy a housing unit. A house, an apartment or other group of rooms, or a single room, is
regarded as a housing unit when it is occupied or intended for occupancy as separate living
quarters; that is, when the occupants do not live with any other persons in the structure and
there is direct access from the outside or through a common hall.
26

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
Less than
high school
diploma
High school
diploma or
equivalency
Some
college, no
degree
Associate's
degree
Bachelor's
degree
Graduate or
professional
degree
McLean County
Illinois
United States


24
Household and family characteristics

In 2012, McLean County residents lived in 66,000 households, with an average of 2.5
people per household. Figure 4.8 shows the types of households in McLean County. Families
made up 63 percent of households; 6 percent of which were female householder families with
children under 18 years and no husband present. People living alone account for the majority of
nonfamily households in the county. Non-family households also consist of people living
together, none of whom are related to the householder. Nearly 30 percent of McLean County
households include at least one person under 18 years of age; 20 percent include someone age
65 or older.
27

Figure 4.8 Types of households in McLean County in 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012,
2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved
January 23, 2014, from

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of total households in McLean County
increased from 56,746 in 2000 to 65,104 in 2010. During that timeframe, the number of
householders living alone increased from 15,668 to 18,309. Among householders living alone,
people age 65 years and over increased from 4,615 in 2000 to 5,287 in 2010. The overall
number of households with individuals 65 years and over increased from 10,204 in 2000 to
12,254 in 2010.
28
During that time, the number of female householders with no husband present
and own children under 18 years in McLean County also increased from 3,324 to 4,011.
29

Nearly 51 percent of males and 47 percent of females over the age of 15 in McLean County are
currently married (see Figure 4.9). Almost 10 percent of females and 9 percent of males are
divorced.

49.40%
11.80%
25.50%
13.30%
Married-couple
families
Other nonfamily
households
People living
alone
Other families


25
Figure 4.9 Marital status in McLean County, 2012
Population 15 years
and over
Males Females
Now married, except
separated
50.6% 47.0%
Never married 38.1% 35.3%
Divorced 9.0% 9.9%
Widowed 1.8% 6.7%
Separated .6% 1.1%

Income

McLean County households and families have median incomes well above state and
national levels. Figure 4.10 shows the income levels for McLean County, Illinois, and U.S.
families and households in 2012. Median family income tends to be higher than median
household income. Income is discussed in greater depth in the Income and Poverty section.

Figure 4.10 Median family & household income, 2012

Median Family Income
Median Household
Income
McLean County $79,445 $62,117
Illinois $68,705 $55,137
United States $62,527 $51,371
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: United States,
Illinois, and McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates.
2_1YR_DP03&prodType=table

1
Prince, E. (1899). Evolution of the Jail of McLean County, Illinois. Bloomington, IL: Pantagraph Printing and
Stationary Company. Retrieved December 30, 2013, from
https://archive.org/stream/evolutionofjailo00prin#page/n1/mode/2up
2
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 17,
2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml
3
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: Bloomington, IL. Retrieved September 20,
2013, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: Normal, IL. Retrieved September 20, 2013,
from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml
4
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012 American Community Survey 1-
Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_NP01&prodType=n
arrative_profile


26

5
McLean County Regional Planning Commission. (2009). McLean County Regional Comprehensive Plan: A Guide to
Sensible Growth through Regional Cooperation: Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved October 7, 2013, from
http://www.mcplan.org/egov/documents/1342739612_12279.pdf
6
Population statistics retrieved from: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: McLean
County, IL. Retrieved September 20, 2013, from
7
McLean County Regional Planning Commission. (2009). McLean County Regional Comprehensive Plan: A Guide to
Sensible Growth Through Regional Cooperation. (McLean County Regional Planning Commission publication).
Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved October 7, 2013, from
8
U.S. Census Bureau. (2006-2010).Census Flows Mapper: McLean County, IL. Retrieved April 7, 2014 from
http://flowsmapper.geo.census.gov/flowsmapper/map.html
9
US News & World Report. (2014). College Compass: Illinois State University. Retrieved January 21, 2014 from
http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/illinois-state-university-1692
10
US News & World Report. (2014). College Compass: Illinois Wesleyan University. Retrieved January 21, 2014 from
http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/search?name=Illinois+Wesleyan+University
11
U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: McLean County, Illinois 2000,
Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF 1) 100-Percent Data. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=DEC_00_SF1_DP1&prodType=tab
le
12
Michel, E. J. & Dr. Weinzimmer, L. G. (2013). McLean County Community Health Needs Assessment 2013. St.
Joseph Medical Center. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://www.osfstmary.org/osflib/about/CHNA/bloomingtonCHNA-summary.pdf
13
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). ACS DEMOGRAPHIC AND HOUSING ESTIMATES, 2012 American Community
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP05&prodType=ta
ble
14
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012 American Community Survey
1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
arrative_profile
15
Economic Development Council of the Bloomington-Normal Area. (2013). 2013 Demographic Profile. Normal, IL.
Retrieved from http://www.bnbiz.org/Data-Center/Demographic-Profile.aspx
16
U.S. Census Bureau. (2010). 2010 Census Interactive Population Search: Bloomington, IL, Census Tract view.
Retrieved January 21, 2014, from http://www.census.gov/2010census/popmap/
17
U.S. Census Bureau. (2010). 2010 Census Interactive Population Search: Bloomington, IL, Census Tract view.
Retrieved January 21, 2014, from http://www.census.gov/2010census/popmap/
18
Data is from two sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: McLean
County, Illinois 2000, Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF 1) 100-Percent Data. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
le ; U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). ACS DEMOGRAPHIC AND HOUSING ESTIMATES, 2012 American Community
ble
19
Bliss, Rebecca. (2009). Hispanic and Latino Community Study: Needs and Assets. Bloomington, IL: Hispanic
Families Work Group. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://static.squarespace.com/static/510221b5e4b091edd3f0ad54/t/52192e5ce4b0f11bee535049/1377381980451/Hi
spanic%20and%20Latino%20Community%20Study%202009%20Part%201.pdf
20
arrative_profile
21
Winkleby, M., Jatulis, D., Frank, E., & Fortmann, S. P. (1992). Socioeconomic Status and Health: How Education,
Income, and Occupation Contribute to Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease. American Journal of Public Health,
82 (6), 816-820. doi: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1694190/pdf/amjph00543-0042.pdf
22
arrative_profile


27

23
County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. (2014). County Snapshot: McLean County, IL. Retrieved April 8, 2014 from
http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/factors/overall/snapshot
24
Data selected from: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012 American
Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: United States, Illinois, and McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 23, 2014,
from
arrative_profile
25
U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Current Population Survey (CPS) Definitions: Family. Retrieved January 21, 2014,
from http://www.census.gov/cps/about/cpsdef.html
26
U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Current Population Survey (CPS) Definitions: Household. Retrieved January 21,
2014, from http://www.census.gov/cps/about/cpsdef.html
27
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: McLean County, IL, 2012, 2012 American
Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
arrative_profile
28
Data from two sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: McLean
le ; U.S. Census Bureau. (2010). Profile of General Population Housing Characteristics: McLean County, Illinois,
2010, 2010 Demographic Profile Data. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=DEC_10_DP_DPDP1&prodType=t
able
29
Data from two sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: McLean
le ; U.S. Census Bureau. (2010). Profile of General Population Housing Characteristics: McLean County, Illinois,
2010, 2010 Demographic Profile Data. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=DEC_10_DP_DPDP1&prodType=t
able
5. Methodology and Survey Respondent Demographics


28
approach that incorporated both quantitative and qualitative
methods to build a picture of McLean Countys resources and
needs for health and human services. 2014 Community
Assessment protocols were reviewed and approved through
Illinois State Universitys Institutional Review Board and the University of Illinois Internal Review
Board. This approval process ensures the 2014 Community Assessment was conducted on
ethical values and principles. Research activities included:
Review of public data provided by government agencies, local reports, directories, and
planning documents.
A randomized survey of 16,000 McLean County households, yielding 1,606 responses.
12 focus groups representing a wide range of issues, client populations, and service
providers associated with health and human services in Mclean County.
29 key informant interviews of McLean County leaders and service providers
representing a range of perspectives, interests, and expertise.
In all, 1,962 McLean County residents participated directly in the 2014 Community
Assessment. Instruments and protocols can be found in the Appendices.

Over 22 community partners representing a variety of sectors
(health and human services, education, business, financial,
government, and nonprofit) convened to provide guidance on the
development, methodology, report, and dissemination of the 2014
Community Assessment.
Assessment content was derived from an Advisory Council meeting in January 2013.
The Council determined which data points would assist their agency, business, or municipality
in future planning and programming. This list was broken down between data points that already
existed from an outside source and those that did not exist. The Council then determined the
best method for gathering data that did not yet exist.

A seven-page survey was mailed to 16,000 McLean County
adult residents (18 years of age and older) in August 2013.
Reminder postcards were mailed to all survey recipients and
follow-up telephone calls were made to some rural residents
who had not yet returned a survey through mail. The survey
asked questions on the following health and human service topics: health (e.g., physical,
mental, oral); access to healthcare and prescription medication; services for seniors and people
with disabilities; youth issues; civic engagement; employment; transportation usage; economic
status; housing; health and human services accessed and satisfaction with those services; and
general perceptions of local issues and needs. The survey also inquired about basic
demographic characteristics (e.g., age, race, ethnicity, educational attainment, language
spoken, household size, and income). The survey concluded with two open-ended questions
asking respondents What do you like most about McLean County? and What are you most
concerned about in McLean County? The survey tool can be found in Appendix B.

HOUSEHOLD
SURVEY
RESEARCH
ACTIVITIES
ADVISORY
COUNCIL


29
Survey development and sampling

Survey development began with the January 2013 Advisory Council meeting. United
Way of McLean County (UWMC) staff and consultants developed several survey drafts and
sought feedback from the Methodology Subgroup. The University of Illinois Center for
Prevention Research and Development formatted the final survey and scanned returned
surveys to create a database of results.
Employing Survey Sampling, Inc., (SSI) the 2014 Community Assessment survey used a
stratified sampling strategy to improve representativeness of the sample. McLean County has
42 Census tracts. Seven of these tracts (17113000104, 17113000400, 17113000501,
17113001303, 17113001500, 17113001600, 17113001700) were selected for oversampling.
These seven tracts qualify for the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) or had a Median
Household Income of less than $35,000 in year, and do not hold or are not directly adjacent to a
college or university. The only oversampled tract that did not fit this criterion was 17113001700;
the Median Family Income for this tract is $35,481. Each of these tracts is in Bloomington or
Normal.
From a total universe of 55,187 households in McLean County, 16,000 households
(29%) were randomly selected to take part in the survey. One-fourth of the households
(n=4,000) in the sample were from low income census tracts; the remaining 75 percent of
households were from all other census tracts in Bloomington, Normal, and outlying
communities. Households in low income census tracts were selected at 2.3 x the frequency of
the remaining tracts in McLean County resulting in the oversampling of these low income tracts.
Figures 5.1 to 5.3 show the Universe of McLean County households from which the survey
sample of 16,000 residents was drawn.

Figure 5.1 McLean County households sampled for the 2014 Community
Assessment survey
Total Records Pulled
Number of McLean County
Households
% of Household
Universe Sampled
16000 55,187 29%

Figure 5.2 Survey sample of McLean County households from low income census
tracts
Area
Number of
records
taken
% of
records
taken
Universe of
households
% of
universe
sampled
TOTAL RECORDS 4000 100% 7013 57%
61701 BLOOMINGTON 1552 38.8% 2721
61761 NORMAL 2448 61.2% 4292



30
Figure 5.3 Survey sample of McLean County households from non-low income
census tracts
Area
Number of
records
taken
% of records
taken
Universe of
households
% of
universe
sampled
TOTAL RECORDS 12000 100% 48,174 24.9%
61701 BLOOMINGTON 2714 22.6%
61702 BLOOMINGTON 105 0.9%
61704 BLOOMINGTON 2671 22.3%
61705 BLOOMINGTON 920 7.7%
61720 ANCHOR 21 0.2%
61722 ARROWSMITH 44 0.4%
61724 BELLFLOWER 33 0.3%
61725 CARLOCK 60 0.5%
61726 CHENOA 184 1.5%
61728 COLFAX 109 0.9%
61730 COOKSVILLE 34 0.3%
61731 CROPSEY 13 0.1%
61732 DANVERS 170 1.4%
61736 DOWNS 133 1.1%
61737 ELLSWORTH 43 0.4%
61738 EL PASO 3 0.0%
61744 GRIDLEY 158 1.3%
61745 HEYWORTH 299 2.5%
61748 HUDSON 229 1.9%
61752 LE ROY 337 2.8%
61753 LEXINGTON 212 1.8%
61754 MC LEAN 94 0.8%
61761 NORMAL 3116 26.0%
61770 SAYBROOK 74 0.6%
61772 SHIRLEY 30 0.3%
61774 STANFORD 76 0.6%
61776 TOWANDA 111 0.9%
61842 FARMER CITY 7 0.1%

Response rate and representativeness

UWMC mailed 16,000 survey packets and received 1,606 surveys for a response rate of
10 percent. Each survey packet included a cover letter, instructions for completing a survey, the
survey instrument, and a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Every mailed survey was written in
English but each cover letter included directions to obtain a mailed or online Spanish version. All
respondents had the option of completing the survey online. Instructions and the surveys web
address were in the cover letter. Overall, valid surveys included 1,434 responses by mail and
213 responses online.
To determine representativeness, demographics of survey respondents were compared


31
to demographics of McLean Countys population provided by the U.S. Census. The following
graphs portray respondents demographics. A proportionally greater number of survey
respondents were female, had more education, and were more affluent compared to census
estimates of the county as a whole.
Eighty-four percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents live in four zip
codes61761, 61701, 61704, and 61705and the remaining 16 percent are in communities
outside Bloomington-Normal (see Figure 5.4). More McLean County residents live in a
community outside of Bloomington-Normal (23.6%) than 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents (see Figure 4.2 in the McLean County Profile).

Figure 5.4 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents by zip
code

The largest group of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents (17.1%) had a
total household income between $50,000-74,999. As determined by Survey Sampling, Inc.,
respondents median household income was $50,000-74,999, consistent with the county as a
whole (see Figure 5.5). SSI predicted household income using multiple regression analysis of
both individual household data and census data at the block group level. The individual
household data includes information such as automobile ownership, length of residency,
housing value, and other proprietary statistics; the census data are based on more than 200
variables related to income from the U.S. Census.
30

34%
26%
18%
6%
2%
2%
1% 1% 1% 1%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
61761 61701 61704 61705 61752 61745 61753 61748 61726 61776
(n=1590)


32
Figure 5.5 Total household income in 2012 of 2014 Community Assessment
survey respondents

U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2012
American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP
03&prodType=table

Survey respondents were often highly educated (see Figure 5.6). Thirty-three percent
had a Bachelors degree and 24 percent had obtained a graduate or professional degree,
roughly twice the rate of McLean County as a whole. Survey respondents were also
disproportionately female in comparison to the county population, accounting for almost 60
percent of returned surveys (see Figure 5.7).

0.0%
2.0%
4.0%
6.0%
8.0%
10.0%
12.0%
14.0%
16.0%
18.0%
20.0%
McLean County
CA Survey Sample
n = 1474
Median = $50,000
to $74,999


33
Figure 5.6 Education level of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents

U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012 American
Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1Y
R_NP01&prodType=narrative_profile

Figure 5.7 Gender of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents

U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2012, 2012
American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 23,
2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/
jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_NP01&prodType=narrative_profile

The largest group of survey respondents was aged 51-60 years (22.8%) (see Figure
5.8). While the differing age categories of census and survey data do not allow for direct
comparison, it is clear the survey data is skewed towards an older population. Nearly 43 percent
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
Less than high school
diploma
High school diploma or
equivalency
Some college, no
degree
Associate's degree
Bachelor's degree
Graduate or
professional degree
CA Survey
Respondents
McLean County
n = 1595
0.0%
10.0%
20.0%
30.0%
40.0%
50.0%
60.0%
70.0%
McLean County CA Survey Respondents
Male
Female
n = 1574


34
of respondents were 61 years of age or older. In contrast, only 10.8 percent of McLean County
residents were 65 years of age or older in 2012.
31

Figure 5.8 Age of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents

The vast majority of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents were White
(92.6%) (see Figure 5.9). Black or African Americans made up 4.2 percent of respondents, and
Asians composed 1.1 percent. Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics were underrepresented in the
2014 Community Assessment survey data compared to census-reported population counts. In
2012, 84.5 percent of McLean County residents were White, 7.7 percent were Black, and 4.5
percent were Asian. Hispanics and Latinos, 4.6 percent of the county population in 2012,
composed 2.1 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
32
(see Figure 5.10).

Figure 5.9 Race of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
20
years or
younger
21-30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 71-80 81-90 91
years or
older
(n=1594)
92.6%
4.2%
0.1%
1.1%
0.4%
1.6%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
White
Black or African American
American Indian or Alaska Native
Asian
Some other race
Two or more races
(n=1588)


35
Figure 5.10 Ethnicity of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents

Over 96 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents speak English in
the home, compared to 92 percent of the county as a whole (see Figure 5.12). Spanish or
Spanish Creole was the second most common language with 1.2 percent of respondents
speaking it at home. Census data shows 2.96 percent of McLean County residents speak
Spanish at home.
33

Figure 5.11 Languages spoken at home by 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents

Figure 5.12 shows that nearly one-third of respondents represent a one-person
household. Another 40 percent, the largest portion of respondents, had two people living in their
households (which was also the median response). One- and two-person households were
slightly over-represented in the 2014 Community Assessment survey data compared to census
data, while three-, four-, and five-person households were under-represented.
2.1%
97.9%
(n=1314)
Hispanic, Latino, or
Spanish origin
Non-Hispanic, Latino, or
Spanish origin
96.5%
1.2% 0.4% 0.6% 0.2%
1.1%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Only
English is
spoken
Spanish or
Spanish
Creole
German French Hindi Other
(n=1379)


36
Figure 5.12 Number of people in 2014 Community Assessment
survey respondents households

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). TENURE BY HOUSEHOLD SIZE, Universe:
Occupied Housing units, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean
County, IL. Retrieved February 6, 2014 from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/
tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_B25009&prodType=table

Almost half of the survey respondents have lived in McLean County for over 31years.
Only 1.1% of respondents have lived in McLean County less than a year.

Figure 5.13 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
length of tenure in McLean County

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
40.0%
45.0%
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 or
more
McLean County
CA Survey
Respondents
1.1%
5.8%
14.0%
31.3%
47.7%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Less than 12
months
1-3 years 4-10 years 11-30 years 31 years or
longer
(n=1599)


37
Almost 90 percent of respondents have internet access in the home.

Figure 5.14 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
home internet access

University of Illinois Community Preservation Clinic survey

The University of Illinois, College of Law Community Preservation Clinic also conducted
a survey of Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) applicants (n=235) at Mid Central
Community Action to gather information on personal finance management strategies. Within the
PIPP survey, about 15 percent of respondents had no high school degree; 46 percent had a
high school diploma or GED. Over a quarter (28%) had some college and 8 percent had a
college degree or professional training. This survey instrument can be found in Appendix K.

The 2014 Community Assessment utilized focus
groupsfacilitated small group discussionsto add
breadth and depth to the public/secondary data and the
household survey responses. UWMC collaborated with Illinois State Universitys Stevenson
Center and the University of Illinois, Community Preservation Clinic to conduct 12 focus groups
consisting of 92 service providers and consumers.

Focus group development

The 2014 Community Assessment Advisory Council identified topic areas and target
populations to be explored through focus groups. Focus group participants were recruited
mainly through their involvement with an organization, agency, or church. A community contact
at each entity was identified and approached to help recruit participants for a specific focus
group. Contacts suggested location, time of day, day of week, and other aspects (e.g.,
childcare) for each focus group. Other recruitment efforts included posting flyers and
announcing through local media (e.g., the Pantagraph) and list-serves. A sample flyer can be
found in Appendix H. Focus groups were held at venues throughout McLean County that were
convenient for most participants. Each focus group lasted about 90 minutes and food was
85.7%
14.3%
(n=1578)
Yes
No
FOCUS GROUPS


38
provided. Each focus group is listed below with the number of participants noted in parentheses.

Health (10)
Seniors (12)
Homeless (4)
Caregivers of People with a Disability (11)
Youth Advocates (6)
Non-English Speaking Persons (9)
Rural Neighborhood (5)
West-Bloomington Neighborhood (17)
East-Bloomington Neighborhood (3)
Normal Neighborhood (3)
Financial Concerns (12 in 2 groups)

Focus group administration

Focus group discussions were facilitated by trained UWMC, University of Illinois College
of Law, and Illinois State University Stevenson Center staff and students using pre-developed
guides. See Appendix G for a sample guide. A note taker was designated for each group. The
Non-English Speaking Persons focus group was conducted entirely in Spanish by a community
volunteer who is connected with the Hispanic population.
Focus groups consisted of an overview of the 2014 Community Assessment project,
general focus group rules, introductions among participants, discussion of predefined questions,
and wrap-up/final remarks. At the beginning of each focus group, participants signed an
informed consent form. In doing so, they declared they understood the purpose of the 2014
Community Assessment and were comfortable with information discussed in the focus group
being included in the final report without their names or any other identifying characteristics.
Participants were invited to write comments on a notecard if they felt uncomfortable sharing in
the group setting or did not have enough time to share. The questions were tailored to the
specific topic area or target population and designed to elicit the following information:

Community challenges/issues
Strengths in the health and human service system
Weaknesses in the health and human service system
Gaps in services
Duplications of services
Recommendations/opportunities for improvement

The focus groups conducted through Illinois States Stevenson Center sought to answer,
What factors have the strongest impact upon communal and individual well-being in different
neighborhoods in McLean County? More details on the neighborhood focus groups
methodology can be found in Appendix J.



39
UWMC staff members and students from Illinois
States Stevenson Center conducted a total of 20 key
informant interviews in person and collected 9 key
informant responses from SurveyMonkey, an online
survey tool. For the 2014 Community Assessment, a
key informant was defined as a formal or informal leader in McLean County or at a local
agency/organization, or as an expert in the topic area or population of interest.

Key Informant interview development

The 2014 Community Assessment Advisory Council developed a list of topics and
populations to explore through key informant interviews. The Methodology Subgroup, UWMC
staff, and the ASRU consultant developed a list of 11 interview questions similar to those used
in focus groups. Council members were asked to recommend at least three key individuals to
interview. These recommendations were not shared with the Council as a whole to maintain
potential informants confidentiality. Key informants represented local non-profit and social
service agencies, churches, government, neighborhoods, educational entities, and health care.
Key informants were briefed on the 2014 Community Assessment project, assured their
names and any other identifying information would be left out of the final report, and asked to
sign an informed consent form. Interviews lasted between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Key
informants were asked the following questions:

Why?
system? Why?
County?
McLean County?
you like to make?

In addition to the 20 people interviewed in person, 26 additional key informants were
invited to respond to the same questions through a SurveyMonkey survey. Nine individuals
responded to this online, open-ended survey.

Focus group and key informant interview analysis

Focus group and key informant interview data were either transcribed on a laptop
computer during the session, or handwritten and then transcribed to a Word document at a later
KEY INFORMANT
INTERVIEWS


40
time. Focus group and key informant interview data were analyzed together as they both
explored similar aspects of the health and human service system in McLean County. UWMC
staff independently reviewed all data to create an initial coding list of major emergent themes
and categories. Then, two UWMC staff independently coded the key informant interview and
focus group data to establish inter-coder reliability. Once coded, the major themes were
summarized within each category. The major themes and codes include the following:

Themes
Community challenge/issue
Strengths in the system
Weaknesses in the system
Gaps in the system
Duplications
Recommendations for improvement

Categories
Education
Youth
Physical health
Mental health
Housing
Homelessness
Economic/Income concerns
Employment
Transportation
Rural
Criminal justice system
City/government
Seniors
People with disabilities
Non-English speaking persons
Infrastructure
Caregivers
Community overall

Secondary data collection began in September 2013 and
includes over 60 different sources including the local, state, and
federal government, academic journals, organizational studies,
and newspapers. Secondary data was collected for each
section of the 2014 Community Assessment prior to integrating
survey, key informant, and focus group data. This allowed UWMC staff to compare 2014
Community Assessment data with existing data.
The most frequently cited source is the U.S. Census Bureau. The Census Bureaus
American Factfinder search tool facilitated data collection greatly. In addition, the 2014
Community Assessment also frequently integrates information from PATHs online database,
the McLean County Health Department, and the McLean County Regional Planning
SECONDARY
DATA


41
Commission. PATH, the Health Department, the Bloomington Housing Authority, the Stevenson
Center for Community and Economic Development, and Connect Transit also provided
additional data upon request. These organizations, data gathered through the HUD Integrated
Disbursement and Information System, focus groups, and key informants helped identify
housing needs and housing market characteristics. These organizations also assisted in
identifying other organizations that could supply data to meet HUD Consolidated Plan reporting
requirements.

The 2014 Community Assessment has limitations. The
recruitment methods for focus group participants and key
informants were not random; therefore, data from those sources
may not be representative of McLean County as a whole. As stated earlier, participants were
recruited mainly through their involvement with local organizations, some of which are funded by
the United Way of McLean County. Some participants may have spoken more frequently about
the organization in which they were involved. Some focus groups had low participation which
may limit the datas representativeness. While one focus group was conducted with caregivers
and another with seniors, a focus group was not conducted specifically with people with
disabilities. Therefore, most references to people with disabilities are drawn from a caregiver of
a person with a disability or a key informant.

30
SSI. (N.A.). Targeted Income Sample. Retrieved March 25, 2014 from http://www.surveysampling.com/. Accessed
as pdf.
31
arrative_profile
32
ble
33
arrative_profile

LIMITATIONS
6. Findings
6.1 HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICE PROFILE


42
This section provides an overview of the types of
services available in McLean County and the
experiences and perceived needs of its
residents. It outlines the location and types of
services in the county, broadly discusses themes
related to the provision of services, and looks at 2014 Community Assessment data on
perceived needs for additional services, programs, and facilities in McLean County. 2014
Community Assessment survey respondents indicated a need for additional financial services,
youth centers, homeless facilities, and childcare centers. Respondents rated street and
sidewalk improvements as the additional public service most needed. Respondents also said
additional programming is most needed for abused and neglected children, violence prevention,
and mental health.

Number and scope of services

Health and human services is defined as the spectrum of organizations and agencies
addressing issues related to social, emotional, physical, and environmental well-being. A short
list of needs addressed in the health and human service system includes spiritual,
transportation, food, shelter, psychological, educational, safety and security, employment,
developmental, and recreational needs.
McLean County has an abundance of health and human services. PATH Crisis Center, a
social service agency in downtown Bloomington, maintains a directory of health and human
services for McLean, Livingston, and DeWitt Counties. As of October 2013, their database
included 585 health and human service organizations serving McLean County that are
charitable social service agencies and governmental services. This includes nonprofits, for-
profits offering services unavailable from nonprofit agencies, and organizations funded or
contracted by the government to provide social services. The PATH database consists of many
types of organizations, from churches, schools, and townships, to community health clinics,
senior living facilities, and grocery stores. A sample includes the following organizations:

Amtrak
Alzheimers Association Greater Illinois Chapter
Bloomington Bible Church
Bloomington Normal Treatment Center
Chestnut Health Systems
City of Refuge Food Pantry
Ecology Action Center
Heartland Head Start
Home Sweet Home Ministries
Labor Ready
McLean County Public Defender
Normal Public Library
Seniors Program
Tri-Valley High School
YMCA of Bloomington-Normal

A majority (53%) of the agencies serving McLean County are located in Bloomington.
HEALTH & HUMAN
SERVICE PROFILE
6. Findings


43
Nearly one-third (30%) are located in Normal. The remaining 17 percent are located outside the
Twin Cities. These percentages were calculated with data supplied by PATH and listed in Figure
6.1.1. Within Bloomington, about two-thirds of the health and human service agencies are
located in or near downtown.
34

Figure 6.1.1 Number of health and human service agencies in McLean
County communities listed by PAT H
Municipality/Township Number of Agencies
Allin 1
Anchor 1
Arrowsmith 2
Bellflower 3
Bloomington 310
Carlock 5
Chenoa 6
Colfax 8
Cooksville 1
Covell 1
Cropsey 1
Danvers 5
Downs 8
Ellsworth 1
Funks Grove 1
Gridley 6
Heyworth 8
Hudson 6
Le Roy 12
Lexington 8
Martin 1
McLean 4
Money Creek 1
Normal 175
Old Town 1
Saybrook 2
Stanford 3
Towanda 3
West Township 1
Total 585
Source: Agency list provided by PATH

Despite this abundance, 8.2 percent (or 125 out of 1,520) of 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents talked about a need for services in response to the question,
What are you most concerned about in McLean County?

6. Findings


44
Public services themes

Comments about crime, safety, and drugs were the most prevalent among responses to
the question What are you most concerned about in McLean County? Twenty one percent (or
313 out of 1,520 people) expressed these concerns. Infrastructure/city planning was the second
most common concern; 14 percent of responses (or 208 out of 1,520) were in this category:

Water supply, lack of state funds for infrastructure maintenance

Too much farmland is being destroyed for new homes and schools. More attention is needed in
Bloomington's West side

THE ROADS. Please fix our roads. College Avenue is in really bad shape and seems to be
getting worse. PLEASE FIX OUR ROADS!!!!!!!

Concerns about taxes, the use of tax dollars, and funding were the third most common
concern; 13.6 percent of responses were in this category:
35

The cost of living and taxes keep going up. People on fixed incomes are finding it difficult to live
here. Many of our friends are moving out of Illinois.

the high real estate prices and taxes will price young people out of living here

The government spending too much money for frivolice things. Property taxes going up!

That taxes might increase. Particularly real estate taxes.

Hispanic and Latino community

With the growing Hispanic and Latino population in McLean County (from 3,760 people
in 2000 to 7,946 in 2012), key informants in the health and human service system noted a
growing need to have bilingual Spanish speakers on staff:

The Hispanic population is in need of attention. Theres a lack of services to those who speak
Spanish. Theres always a waiting list of Spanish-speakers. They are often served by CHCC.
There once was a bilingual therapist at Chestnut.

We tried getting someone on staff. You cant just have someone there waiting to interpret, so it
never really works to have somebody just there to interpret. Ive got a handful of staff who speak
Spanish, but I dont always have enough people.

There is a lack of translators in the doctors offices.

In addition to language barrier challenges, participants in the 2014 Community
Assessment Spanish-speaking focus group said they have experienced racism in McLean
County:

Clerks will say hi to other people but not to us.

There are other immigrants in town but the police focus mostly on Hispanics. There is racism
against Hispanics.

6. Findings


45
Other examples occur at the doctors office with the receptionist. When we call to make an
appointment they claim they dont understand usthey always do not treat us well.

Non-English speaking population

A key informant for non-English speakers noted the need for services to help ease the
transition for non-English speaking immigrants into the community:

A lot of services are there, but maybe we need to find a way to bring it together so people can be
aware of where to go, somewhere for people to get started when they come to our community. If
it already exists, people dont know about it.

This key informant also noted employment, finance, and health insurance challenges
and challenges accessing health insurance for non-English speakers, but said that efforts are
being made by service providers to meet the needs of non-English speakers:

This population needs guidance for more sophisticated pursuits. For the most part, they are able
to have their basic needs met, but they need help with the next step up: preparing for retirement
(how to invest in their future), credit counseling (to not sign up for every credit card that comes in
the mail), and home ownership.

Most of the people coming here dont have an employer that has insurance coverage for their
employees because they are getting hourly jobs.

There has been an increasing effort in social services to try to service people from different
cultural backgrounds. There are options to speak either English or Spanish at the hospital and
they all have translation services available. They are really trying to meet people where they are.

Community engagement and volunteerism

By far the most common form of group participation among 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents is in faith-based or religious organizations; 54.8 percent
reported participating in one. Participation in common interest groups such as gardening or
book clubs was the second most frequently reported kind of organized group activity.
Additionally, more than one in five survey respondents said they participate in community
service.

6. Findings


46
Figure 6.1.2 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
participation in organized group activities

The majority of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents volunteered at least
once in the past year (66.9%). Some volunteered frequently: 7.9 percent volunteered 31 to 50
times, and 8.1 percent volunteered more than 50 times. One-third of respondents did not
volunteer (33.1%).

Figure 6.1.3 Number of times 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents volunteered in the last year

McLean County financial, employment, and education service needs

A majority of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents perceived a need for
additional financial, employment, and education services. With the exception of services for
54.8%
20.6%
11.6%
10.4%
29.0%
10.1%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Faith-based or Religious
Organization (n=1534)
Community Service or Agency
(n=1487)
Geographic-based Group (n=1458)
Political Group or Party
Participation (n=1452)
Common Interest Group (n=1499)
Other (n=1499)
33.1%
29.3%
21.6%
7.9%
8.1%
None
1-5 times
6-30 times
31-50 times
51 or more times
n=15
6. Findings


47
prospective home buyers (35.8%), at least 60 percent of respondents indicated a need for
services in all categories: those seeking affordable childcare (69.2%); the unemployed/job
seekers (68.3%); people seeking affordable housing (65.3%) or financial coaching (63.3%);
those wanting more education or training (62.2%); and those in debt (60.2%).

Figure 6.1.4 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents perceived
need for additional financial services in McLean County

Facilities needs in cities and towns

Among 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents, additional youth centers
were seen as the most needed additional facility in their city or town, with a mean (average) of
3.66 on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being not needed, 3 being neutral, and 5 being very much
needed). This was closely followed by the need indicated for additional homeless facilities with
a mean of 3.55. Additional parks and recreational facilities were rated as least needed with a
mean of 2.86 (see Figure 6.1.5). Respondents were also given the option of selecting Dont
Know. One in four respondents said they dont know if additional childcare centers/licensed
daycare providers are needed in their city or town. 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents from Bloomington rated the need for additional homeless facilities at 3.75, higher
than McLean County respondents overall.

68.3%
35.8%
60.2%
63.3%
62.2%
69.2%
65.3%
31.7%
64.2%
39.8%
36.7%
37.8%
30.8%
34.7%
0% 10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%
Services for unemployed / job
seekers (n=1428)
Services for prospective home
buyers (n=1376)
Services for those in debt (n=1387)
Services for those seeking financial
coaching (n=1385)
Services for those seeking more
education or training (n=1403)
Services for those seeking
affordable childcare (n=1412)
Services for those seeking
affordable housing (n=1411)
No
Yes
6. Findings


48
Figure 6.1.5 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents mean
need for additional facilities in their city or town

Public improvements in cities and towns

On a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being not needed, 3 being neutral, and 5 being very much
needed), 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents felt that street improvements and
sidewalk repairs were the most needed public infrastructure upgrades in their city or town, with
means of 4.36 and 4.02 respectively. Less than one in ten respondents responded Dont Know
to additional sidewalks and additional street improvements. Nearly one in four said they did not
know if there was a need in their city or town for additional flood drainage improvements or
additional assistance to make homes accessible for people with disabilities (see Figure 6.1.6).

3.55
3.66
3.39
3.34
3.11
3.00
2.86
0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0
Homeless facilities (n=1154)
Youth centers (n=1162)
Childcare centers / licensed daycare
providers (n=1128)
Neighborhood or community centers /
facilities (n=1148)
Fire stations / equipment (n=1160)
Health care facilities (n=1242)
Parks / recreational facilities (n=1295)
1=Not Needed 3=Neutral 5=Very Much Needed
6. Findings


49
Figure 6.1.6 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents mean need
for additional public improvements and assistance in their city or town

Additional service needs in cities and towns

2014 Community Assessment survey respondents rated the need for different kinds of
additional services in their city or town on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being not needed, 3 being
neutral, and 5 being very much needed). Respondents indicated the greatest need was for
more services for abused and neglected children with a mean of 3.84. Mental health services,
with a mean of 3.77, was the second highest rated need followed by violence prevention at
3.70, and employment training at 3.66. Despite the attention paid to crime, drugs, and safety
issues in response to the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean County?
respondents tended to be more neutral toward crime awareness/prevention services (mean of
3.56) (see Figure 6.1.7). Generally, more respondents selected Dont Know to service needs,
ranging between 24 and 44 percent of respondents. The smallest percentage of respondents
(24%) said they did not know if there was a need for additional health services in their city or
town. Respondents most frequently said they did not know if there was a need for more AIDs
patient programs (44%).

4.36
4.02
3.59
3.36
3.02
3.15
3.51
3.55
3.28
0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0
Street improvements (n=1407)
Sidewalks (n=1389)
Water / sewer improvements (n=1171)
Flood drainage improvements (n=1149)
Parking facilities (n=1288)
Tree planting (n=1282)
Assistance for home repairs / home
energy improvements (n=1215)
Assistance to make homes accessible
for people with disabilities (n=1167)
Availability of public transportation
(n=1241)
6. Findings


50
Figure 6.1.7 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents mean need for
additional services in their city or town

McLean County service needs for specific populations

2014 Community Assessment survey respondents were asked to indicate whether or not
there was a need for additional services for specific populations in McLean County.
Respondents most frequently said there was a need for additional services for people with
mental illness (46.8%), people experiencing homelessness (44.4%), and people experiencing
hunger (44.4%). The lowest percentages of respondents perceived there was a need for
additional senior services (34%) or services for people with developmental or intellectual
disabilities (35.8%).

2.66
3.12
3.57
3.43
3.58
3.66
3.56
3.19
3.45
3.84
3.77
3.28
3.70
0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0
AIDs patient programs (n=852)
Legal services (n=1021)
Youth services (n=1068)
Alcohol or substance abuse services
(n=1039)
Services for battered / abused spouses
(n=1038)
Employment training (n=1098)
Crime awareness / prevention (n=1134)
Homeownership education (n=1085)
Health care services (n=1144)
Services for abused / neglected children
(n=1074)
Mental health services (n=1066)
Services for ex-prisoners (n=981)
Violence prevention (n=1067)
6. Findings


51
Figure 6.1.8 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents perceived need for
additional services for specific populations

34
PATH. (2012). PATH-O-GRAM & More: Inclusion/Exclusion Policy. Retrieved January 23, 2014 from
http://www.pathcrisis.org/community-resources/path-o-gram-more/
34
On the PATH agency list, 204 out of the 310 agencies in Bloomington have a 61701 zip code.
35
206/1520 = .1355
34.0%
35.8%
46.8%
44.4% 44.4%
41.8%
15.7%
14.1%
10.8%
14.3%
15.2%
13.9%
50.2% 50.0%
42.4%
41.3%
40.4%
44.2%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Seniors
(n=1513)
People with
intellectual /
developmental
disabilities
People with
mental illness
(n=1515)
People
experiencing
homelessness
(n=1515)
People
experiencing
hunger (n=1517)
People needing
assisted living /
suported
housing
(n=1510)
Yes
No
Don't Know
6. Findings
6.2 INCOME & POVERTY


52
This section includes information on family and household income,
loans, poverty, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,
and financial services. In the last decade, McLean Countys
economy has been heavily affected by national trends such as the
Great Recession. Median household and family incomes have
been steadily increasing, but the poverty rate has so too. When reflecting on the economy,
survey respondents were ambivalent. Many felt McLean County is economically stable and
recession proof, while others expressed concern that much of the poverty in the community
goes unseen. At nearly 15 percent, the poverty rate in McLean County is the highest it has been
in at least 10 years. 2014 Community Assessment respondents said public buses are the
financial service they use most frequently. Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and
Women, Infant and Children (WIC) services received the highest satisfaction ratings. Additional
data on income and poverty is included in the Employment, Housing and Homelessness, and
Criminal Justice sections.

Family and household income

Family income includes the income of the householder and all other individuals 15
years old and over related to the householder.
36
Householders are defined by the U.S. Census
Bureau as the person, or one of the people, in whose name the home is owned, being bought,
or rented.
37
Household income includes the income of the householder and all other
individuals 15 years old and over in the household, whether they are related to the householder
or not.
38

Bloomington-Normal is wealthy among Central Illinois communities. According to the
Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, median family income in Bloomington-
Normal was $86,800 in fiscal year 2013. In comparison, median family income was $55,900 in
Decatur and $67,200 in Springfield during that same period.
39
However, the countys relative
wealth is unequally distributed. There are many who find it difficult to afford housing and basic
needs. Over 25 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they do not
feel like their household earns enough to cover monthly expenses (see Figure 6.2.1).

Figure 6.2.1 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents: Do
you feel your household earns enough to cover monthly expenses?

74.89%
25.11%
Yes
No
n=1573
INCOME &
POVERTY
6. Findings


53
Median income divides the income distribution into two halves, half the population
making above the median and half the population making below. Figure 6.2.2 shows the median
family and household incomes for McLean County, Illinois, and the United States in fiscal year
2012. Among these, McLean County has the highest median incomes.

Figure 6.2.2 Median family & household income, 2012
Median Family Income
Median Household
Income
McLean County $79,445 $62,117
Illinois $68,705 $55,137
United States $62,527 $51,371
Illinois, McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates.

Figure 6.2.3 shows the distribution of families by income categories in 2012 inflation-
adjusted dollars. Ten percent of families in Mclean County make less than $25,000; 85 percent
of families make $35,000 or more. Thirty-seven percent of families make between $50,000 and
$99,999 and 20 percent make between $100,000 and $149,999.
40

Figure 6.2.3 Percent of families by income categories, 2012

Illinois, McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved
R_DP03&prodType=table

0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
McLean County
Illinois
United States
6. Findings


54
Figure 6.2.4 shows the distribution of McLean County households by income in 2012
inflation-adjusted dollars. Overall, household income is more evenly distributed across
categories than family income. Seventy percent of households make $35,000 or more. A greater
percentage of households (22%) than families (10%) make less than $25,000 per year. Both 30
percent of households and families earn between $35,000 and $74,999. Generally, however,
families have higher incomes than households. A greater percentage of families (39%) than
households (29%) earn between $75,000 and $149,999, and a greater percentage of families
(16%) than households (11%) make more than $150,000.
41

Figure 6.2.4 Percent of total households by income categories, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: United States, Illinois,
McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24,
2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR
_DP03&prodType=table

Median household income in McLean County consistently hovered above national levels
between 2001 and 2012 (see Figure 6.2.5) and roughly kept pace with inflation, rising from
$49,227 in 2001 to $62,129 in 2012. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer
Price Index (CPI) Inflation Calculator, $49,227 in 2001 had the same buying power as
$63,818.32 did in 2012.
42

0.0%
2.0%
4.0%
6.0%
8.0%
10.0%
12.0%
14.0%
16.0%
18.0%
20.0%
McLean County
Illinois
United States
6. Findings


55
Figure 6.2.5 Median household income in dollars

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: United
States, Illinois, McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.census.gov/did/www/saipe/data/interactive/#view=StateAndCounty&utilBtn=&y
LB=0&stLB=14&cLB=57&dLB=0&gLB=0&usSts_cbSelected=false&usTot_cbSelected=tru
e&stateTot_cbSelected=true&pLB=4&multiYearSelected=false&multiYearAlertFlag=false&
prStateFlag=false&invalidSDYearsFlag=false

Money management

The University of Illinois, Community Preservation Clinic hosted two financial focus
groups in Bloomington-Normal and conducted a survey to gather information on personal
financial management strategies. Overall, participants felt that the economic environment and
their circumstances made it harder to remain financially stable. This feeling was also expressed
in the survey. Participants in the focus groups generally felt they were in a more difficult position
financially than their parents were at their age. Respondents also expressed having higher
expectations for their children.
Debt was also a primary concern. Financial focus group participants expressed concern
that some community members were assuming too much for student loans and other major
investments. Failing to plan for unexpected financial burdens was another major financial issue.
Some participants felt they had mistakenly made impulsive purchases when they had cash,
rather than saving for unexpected costs, or paying off debt. Finally, many participants said they
never had financial management training, and learned about managing money by making
mistakes and watching others. Participants identified parents as the best financial teachers, and
parents in the focus group said they felt responsible for teaching financial responsibility to their
children.

Loans

For 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents, the most-applied-for types of
loans in the last twelve months were car loans (33.8%), mortgage loans (28.7%), and loans
from family and friends (12.9%) (see Figure 6.2.6). Nearly eight percent of loan applicants
sought title and payday loans. In both financial focus groups, one Bloomington-Normal lender
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
United States
Illinois
McLean County
6. Findings


56
was said to routinely offer to renew small loans, creating a dependency cycle. A 2014
Community Assessment key informant said that payday loans had been damaging to the mental
health of people the informant worked with:

Payday loans should be illegal. We had two moms become suicidal from the ramifications of
payday loans.

According to survey respondents, car loans and loans from friends and family have the
highest rate of approvals. Student loans and title loans have the largest percentage of denials
(see Figure 6.2.7).

Figure 6.2.6 Types of loans 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents have applied for in the past year

Figure 6.2.7 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents loan
application approval status

3.5%
5.4%
28.1%
33.5%
7.0%
8.5%
14.1%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40%
Title loan (n=22)
Payday loan (n=34)
Mortgage loan (n=178)
Car loan (n=212)
Student loan (n=44)
Commercial loan (n=54)
Friend or family loan (n=89)
n=633
85.7%
89.7%
90.5%
97.8%
66.7%
90.5%
93.0%
14.3%
10.3%
9.5%
2.2%
33.3%
9.5%
7.0%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Title loan (n=14)
Payday loan (n=29)
Mortgage (n=158)
Car Loan (n=186)
Student loan (n=51)
Commercial loan (n=42)
Loan from friend or family
(n=71)
Not
Approved
Approved
6. Findings


57
Poverty in McLean County

All McLean County residents rely on people, goods, and services to meet everyday
needs for education, employment, transportation, health and wellbeing, food, etc. The county is
fortunate to have many programs, businesses, and organizations to serve these basic needs.
Despite the countys wealth, some residents with lower incomes experience poverty and its
negative effects to a greater extent than others. The proportion of McLean Countys population
living at poverty levels has increased since 2001 as this section shows.
43

Poverty adversely affects wellbeing in a variety of ways. In children, poverty has been
associated with diminished physical health, poorer nutritional outcomes, and emotional and
behavioral problems.
44
In adults, poverty has been found to increase ones likelihood of
experiencing a mental illness, most commonly depression, anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic
stress disorder. These illnesses subsequently make getting out of poverty more difficult.
45
When
there are higher rates of poverty, individuals, families, and the community suffers.
According to the 2013 Federal Poverty Guidelines, a single person is living in poverty if
they make less than $11,490 a year. A family of four is considered to be living in poverty if they
make less than $23,550 per year.
46
As shown in Figure 6.2.8, the U.S. Census Bureau reports
that among people of all ages in McLean County, 14.8 percent (23,938) had an income below
the poverty level in 2012. Among those under the age of 18 in McLean County, 14.3 percent
(5,374 people) were living in poverty in 2012.
47

One in three people in Illinois lives in poverty or is on the brink of poverty, according to
the Social Impact Research Center. Statewide, the rate of poor or near poor has increased from
25 percent in 2000 to 33 percent in 2011.
48
The U.S. Census Bureaus Small Area Income and
Poverty Estimates show the number of McLean County residents living in poverty has more
than doubled from 11,492 to 23,938 between 2001 and 2012. Approximately one in seven
McLean County residents is living in poverty today.
49
Figure 6.2.8 shows the percentage of
individuals living in poverty in McLean County, Illinois, and the United States between 2001 and
2012. In 2001, McLean Countys poverty rate was two to four percent lower than the state and
national poverty rates respectively. By 2012, McLean Countys poverty rate (14.8%) had risen
slightly above the states (14.7%), despite the countys higher median household and family
income.

6. Findings


58
Figure 6.2.8 Percentage of population in poverty, all ages, for the
U.S., Illinois, and Central Illinois Counties

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: McLean
County, Illinois, United States, Peoria County, Sangamon County, Champaign County,
Macon County, Kankakee County. Retrieved April 17, 2014, from

In the University of Illinois, Community Preservation Clinic survey, 63 percent of
respondents said they or a member of their household had to go without car repairs or
maintenance in the last two years, and 14 percent had to go without utilities. Additionally, 41
percent said they had to go without homeowners, auto, or life insurance.
Figure 6.2.9 shows the percentage of the population under age 18 in poverty has been
increasing in the United States, Illinois, and Central Illinois Counties in the last decade. The
increase in McLean County has not been as large as the increase in nearby counties, such as
Macon. The population under age 18 and in poverty in McLean County increased from 9.5
percent in 2002 to 14.3 percent in 2012. Still, the percentage of people under age 18 in poverty
in McLean County is lower than in other Central Illinois Counties, in Illinois, and the U.S. overall.

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
United States
Illinois
McLean
Peoria
Sangamon
Champaign
Macon
Kankakee
6. Findings


59
Figure 6.2.9 Percentage of population under age 18 in poverty for
the US, Illinois, and Central Illinois Counties

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: McLean
County, Illinois, United States, Peoria County, Sangamon County, Champaign County,
Macon County, Kankakee County. Retrieved April 17, 2014, from

Although one in seven McLean County residents live in poverty, some key informants
and focus group participants recognized a general lack of awareness of the challenges faced by
low-income families and individuals:

Because of State Farm, Country Companies, and the two universities, were blessed with a high
population of individuals who are doing okay. Because of those individuals doing okay, Im not so
sure that they necessarily see that silent minority of individuals who are really not doing okay. Its kind
of an underground need in this community, and there are certain aspects where people step up to fill
that need, but it often goes unrecognized by the vast majority of people in the community, this
economic disparity gap.

Middle class has no clue what is happening to the people around them.

We need more cultural understanding in our community on both sides. There are people making
plans in our community that dont know anyone living in poverty.

When responding to the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean
County? some survey respondents expressed similar opinions:

lots of rich people who don't know or care about those with inadequate incomes.

Many people in this area are ignorant as to how many mentally ill and disadvantaged persons there
are in the community. Sometimes I feel that they turn a blind eye.

The growing gap between rich and poor citizens in our county. Needs of our schools to address
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
40.0%
United States
Illinois
McLean
Peoria
Sangamon
Champaign
Macon
Kankakee
6. Findings


60
impact of poverty.

Demographics of poverty

Figure 6.2.10 shows the percentage of those in poverty in McLean County by race and
ethnicity. The Black population was far more likely to be experiencing poverty than any other
race in 2012. Out of a total estimated population of 12,475, approximately 5,410 Black residents
(43.4 percent of the Black population) had an income below the poverty level. The Hispanic
population experienced the second highest rate of poverty at 22.8 percent. An estimated 1,743
of 7,642 Hispanic individuals in McLean County were in poverty in 2012. The White population
had the third highest rate of poverty in 2012. About 19,885 of 138,263 White residents were in
poverty (14.4%).
50

Figure 6.2.10 Poverty by race/ethnicity in 2012 (Black, White,
Hispanic), and 2010-2012 (Asian, Other)

Sources. White, Black, and Hispanic poverty rates are from: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012).
Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community
Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/
faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1701&prodType=ta
ble.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2010-2012). Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months by Age (Some
Other Race Alone): McLean County, IL, Universe: Some other race alone population for
whom poverty status is determined 2010-2012, American Community Survey 3-Year
Estimates. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/
tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_3YR_C17020F&prodType=table.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2010-2012). Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months by Age (Asian
Alone): McLean County, IL, Universe: Asian alone population for whom poverty status is
determined 2010-2012, American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates. Retrieved
January 23, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/
productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_3YR_C17001D&prodType=table

Poverty rates also vary by gender, age, and family types in McLean County. In 2012, a
higher percentage of females (54%) were in poverty than males (46%) compared to the gender
makeup of the county (52% female, 48% male).
51
Figure 6.2.11 shows that a substantial number
of those in poverty are between 18 and 24 years old. This may be due in part to the large
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
40.0%
45.0%
50.0%
White Black Hispanic Asian Other
6. Findings


61
college student population in Bloomington-Normal. More women (669) 65 years and over were
in poverty than men (431) in 2012. In addition, more women (2,074) age 25 to 34 years were in
poverty than men (685) of the same age group. Family types in McLean County suffer from
varying levels of poverty as well. Female householder families (with no husband present)
composed a larger percentage of families in poverty in 2012 at 27 percent compared to 8
percent of all families (see Figure 6.2.12).
52

Figure 6.2.11 Number of males and females by age living below poverty
level in McLean County, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Poverty Status in the past 12 months by sex by age,
Universe: Population for whom poverty status is determined, 2012 American Community Survey
_B17001&prodType=table

0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
Under
5
years
5 to 11
years
12 to
17
years
18 to
24
years
25 to
34
years
35 to
44
years
45 to
54
years
55 to
64
years
65
years
and
over
Male
Female
6. Findings


62
Figure 6.2.12 McLean County poverty rates by family types, 2012


Poverty by educational level

Low-educational attainment increases ones likelihood of being in poverty in McLean
County. The U.S. Census Bureaus 2012 American Community Survey data show for the
population 25 years and over, 42.4 percent of those in poverty did not have a high school
diploma, while only 3.2 percent of those in poverty had a Bachelors degree or higher
53
(see
Figure 6.2.13). The data also show that women are more likely to be in poverty than men.
54

Female householder families with no husband present comprise more than one fourth of
families in poverty in McLean County.
55
The female poverty rate also is consistently higher than
the male poverty rate across levels of educational attainment in McLean County (see Figure
6.2.14). Notably, the poverty rate is much higher for non-high school graduates in McLean
County than at the state and national levels. With nearly one in three people in McLean County
holding a Bachelors Degree, non-high school graduates likely have a harder time securing
employment that covers expenses. This may point to a need for more GED equivalency and
job-training programs targeting non-high school graduates.

0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
Female householder families All families
6. Findings


63
Figure 6.2.13 Percentage of population 25 years and over in poverty by
educational level, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational Attainment: United States, Illinois, McLean
County, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
_S1501&prodType=table

Figure 6.2.14 Poverty rate for the population 25 years and over by
gender and educational attainment in McLean County, 2012
Male Female
Less than high school
graduate
38.5% 46.3%
High school graduate
(includes equivalency)
10.4% 11.5%
Some college or associates
degree
5.4% 11.9%
Bachelors degree or higher 2.5% 3.8%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational Attainment: McLean County, IL, 2012
R_S1501&prodType=table

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income people afford
enough food to support basic health. In Illinois, SNAP benefits are received through the
electronic Illinois Link card. The card functions like a debit card, and is accepted at many
0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
40.0%
45.0%
Less than
high school
graduate
High school
graduate
(includes
equivalency
Some
college or
associate's
degree
Bachelor's
degree or
higher
McLean County
Illinois
United States
6. Findings


64
grocery stores in McLean County and the Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market.
56
The
criteria determining eligibility for SNAP benefits include income and expenses, and the number
of persons who live and eat together in a household. Applications for SNAP benefits in Illinois
are processed through the Department of Human Services. For households without disabled or
elderly persons, the maximum income limit is set at 130 percent of the federal poverty line.
Figure 6.2.15 comes from the Department of Human Services and shows the maximum
allowable monthly income by household size to qualify for SNAP. A one-person household has
to make less than $1,245 per month to qualify. Households that include elderly (age 60 or over)
or disabled persons have a higher maximum allowable income, set at 200 percent of the federal
poverty line.
57

Figure 6.2.15 Maximum monthly income allowable for SNAP by size
of households without disabled or elderly persons (age 60 or over)
Household Size 1 2 3 4 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit
(130% federal poverty line)
$1,245 $1,681 $2,116 $2,522 $2,987
Source: Illinois Department of Human Services. (October, 2013). Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program. Retrieved March 27, 2014, from
http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30357

The Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) published a county-by-county study on
SNAP participation in America in January 2010. The number of participants in the SNAP
program was compared to the number of low-income persons (those under 125% of the federal
poverty line) in each county to determine the percentage of the eligible population utilizing
SNAP. Some Illinois counties, such as Kankakee and Peoria, were found to have participation
rates around 80 percent for those eligible. McLean Countys participation rate was 57 percent.
58

Using this methodology, the McLean County SNAP participation rate between 2008 and
2011 was calculated (see Figures 6.2.16 and 6.2.17). There was an increase in the number of
McLean County residents receiving SNAP benefits during this time period. There were 16,888
SNAP recipients in McLean County in 2011, the latest year for which published SNAP data is
available. The Illinois Department of Human Services indicates that figure was up to 20,071 in
November, 2013.
59
While the number of SNAP recipients and the number of people under 125
percent of the federal poverty line in McLean County both increased between 2008 and 2011,
the participation rate in the program fluctuated between 55 and 65 percent (see Figure 6.2.17).
According to the Social Impact Research Center, 86.4 percent of families receiving SNAP
benefits in McLean County between 2007 and 2011 had one or more workers in the family.
60

6. Findings


65
Figure 6.2.16 Number of SNAP recipients compared to persons
under 125 percent of federal poverty line in McLean County, 2008-
2011

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011). Poverty Status in the Past 12
Months: McLean County, IL, American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved
March 27, 2014, from
_1YR_S1701&prodType=table ; United States Department of Agriculture: Economic
Research Service. (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011). Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Data System: 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 total SNAP participants, McLean, IL. Retrieved
http://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-
%28snap%29-data-system/go-to-the-map.aspx#.UzRZJ5xjXkL

Figure 6.2.17 Percentage of McLean County population under 125%
FPL receiving SNAP benefits

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Population under 125%
FPL
22,802 28,693 25,204 30,019 29,935
SNAP recipients 12,605 14,404 16,229 16,888 NA
Percentage of SNAP
recipients of population
under 125% FPL
55.3% 50.2% 64.4% 56.3% NA
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011). Poverty Status in the Past 12
Months: McLean County, IL, American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1
YR_S1701&prodType=table ; United States Department of Agriculture: Economic Research
Service. (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011). Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Data System:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 total SNAP participants, McLean, IL. Retrieved March 27, 2014 from
http://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-
%28snap%29-data-system/go-to-the-map.aspx#.UzRZJ5xjXkL

0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
2008 2009 2010 2011
Population under
125% FPL
SNAP Recipients
6. Findings


66
Concerns about public aid

Some key informants and participants in the focus group on homelessness expressed
concern about low-income individuals being able to get off federal aid programs and remain
financially stable:

If I do work somewhere I cant make over $65, cause if I make over that theyre going to take my
check. If Im living in a place thats for the disabled and I start working I get kicked out of housing. I
called the social security office and she said, yeah, you can work but if you make over $65 were
going to take dollar for dollar out of your check.

There are a lot of federal programs that are hard to get off of.

Benefits are decreasing disproportionately to income. If you get a small raise, you dont qualify for
benefits anymore.

Those who work and have an emergency need (assistance with paying rent, etc) are unable to get
because they make too much money.

Some key informants and focus groups participants felt the process of applying for and
maintaining public benefits is too cumbersome:

People spend way too much time applying and reapplying for benefitsthey are just sitting and
waiting.

Financial and related services

Among 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents who said they or someone in
their household had utilized financial or related services in the last 12 months (n=616), public
buses (27%) and food pantries (20%) were the most often used services (see Figure 6.2.18).

Figure 6.2.18 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents use
of financial and related services

4.4%
7.6%
6.3%
11.4%
27.1%
4.2%
4.4%
3.2%
19.6%
11.7%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
WIC
VITA
Credit repair or recovery
Employment services
Public buses
Township assistance
Free legal services
Foreclosure assistance
Food pantries
Financial counseling or coaching

n=616
6. Findings


67
Figure 6.2.19 shows the mean satisfaction level of survey respondents who answered
yes to having used one of the financial services the in the graph above. Recipients of
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) services indicated being most satisfied with a mean of
4.19 on a 5-point scale. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) services and financial
counseling/coaching were rated highly with a mean score of 3.81 and 3.75 respectively. Overall,
the recipients of foreclosure assistance and employment services were least satisfied with mean
satisfaction levels of 2.31 and 2.46 respectively.

Figure 6.2.19 2014 Community Assessment survey respondent mean satisfaction
level with financial and related services

Recently, United Way of McLean County partnered with Mid Central Community Action,
Heartland Community College, and the University of Illinois College of Law to offer a free
program called Next Step to help people get out of debt and plan their financial future. The
program links participants with financial coaches who help them improve their credit scores, find
ways to better stretch their dollars, and reach financial goals. Next Step also helps participants
find work or enroll in school by giving them access to college navigators at Heartland
Community College to advise them. Services are provided at Mid Central Community Action in
Bloomington and at Heartland Community College in Normal.
61

36
U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.). Glossary: Family Income. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/help/en/american_factfinder_help.htm#glossary/glossary.htm
37
U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.) Glossary: Householder. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
38
U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.). Glossary: Household. Retrieved January, 24, 2014, from
3.31
2.46
3.75
3.67
2.31
3.61
3.41
3.57
4.19
3.81
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0
Credit repair / recovery (n=35)
Employment services (n=56)
Financial counseling / coaching (n=61)
Food pantries (n=100)
Foreclosure assistance (n=16)
Free legal services (n=18)
Township assistance (n=22)
Public buses (n=120)
VITA services (n=37)
WIC services (n=21)
1=Completely Unsatisfied 5= Completely Satisfied
6. Findings


68

39
Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). 2013 Demographic Profile: Median Family Income.
Normal, IL: Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.bnbiz.org/BloomingtonNormal/media/Bloomington-
Normal/Demographic%20Profiles/EDC_2013_Demographic_Profile_Final.pdf
40
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community
Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
ble
41
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community
ble
42
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). CPI Inflation Calculator. Retrieved January 24,
2014,from http://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/cpicalc.pl?cost1=49227&year1=2001&year2=2012
43
U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: McLean County, Illinois, United States.
http://www.census.gov/did/www/saipe/data/interactive/#view=StateAndCounty&utilBtn=&yLB=0&stLB=14&cLB=57&d
LB=0&gLB=0&usSts_cbSelected=false&usTot_cbSelected=true&stateTot_cbSelected=true&pLB=0&multiYearSelect
ed=false&multiYearAlertFlag=false&prStateFlag=false&invalidSDYearsFlag=false
44
Brooks-Gunn, J., & Duncan, G. (1997). The Effects of Poverty on Children. The Future of Children, 7 (2), 55-71.
doi: https://www.princeton.edu/futureofchildren/publications/docs/07_02_03.pdf
45
Manderscheid, Dr. Ron. (2014, February 3). The Devastating Effects of Income Disparity on Mental illness and
Mortality. Behavioral Healthcare. Retrieved February 4, 2014, from http://www.behavioral.net/blogs/ron-
manderscheid/devastating-effects-income-disparity-mental-illness-and-mortality
46
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation.
(2013). 2013 Poverty Guidelines. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from
http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/13poverty.cfm#guidelines
47
U.S. Census Bureau. (2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: McLean County, Illinois, United States.
ed=false&multiYearAlertFlag=false&prStateFlag=false&invalidSDYearsFlag=false
48
Heartland Alliance: Social Impact Research Center. (2013). Illinoiss 33%: Report on Illinois Poverty, Key Findings,
. Chicago, IL: Social Impact Research Center. Retrieved January 23, 2014, from http://www.ilpovertyreport.org/key-
findings#.UuFrQ5znbct
49
172,281/7 =24,612 ; (23,938 McLean County residents were in poverty in 2012 according to: U.S. Census Bureau.
(2013). Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates: McLean County, Illinois, United States. Retrieved January 24,
2014, from
ed=false&multiYearAlertFlag=false&prStateFlag=false&invalidSDYearsFlag=false)
50
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Poverty Status in the Past 12 Months: McLean County, IL, 2012 American
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1701&prodType=t
able
51
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012) Poverty Status in the past 12 months by sex by age, Universe: Population for whom
poverty status is determined, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_B17001&prodType
=table
52
arrative_profile
53
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational Attainment: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-
Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
able
6. Findings


69

54
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational Attainment: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-
Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
able
55
arrative_profile
56
Downtown Bloomington Association. (N.A.). Farmers Market & Artists Alley. Retrieved March 27, 2014, from
http://www.downtownbloomington.org/farmersmarket
57
Illinois Department of Human Services. (October, 2013). Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Retrieved
March 27, 2014, from http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30357
58
No Author. (2010). County-by-County Review of SNAP/Food Stamp Participation. Washington, DC: Food Research
and Action Center. Retrieved March 27, 2014, from http://frac.org/wp-
content/uploads/2010/07/ny_times_snap_poverty_formatted.pdf
59
Correspondence between Nicole Smith and Illinois Department of Human Services in November 2013
60
Heartland Alliance: Social Impact Research Center. (2013). Illinoiss 33%: Report on Illinois Poverty, McLean
County. Chicago, IL: Social Impact Research Center. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.ilpovertyreport.org/county/mclean-county#.UuKJQJznbct
61
Heartland Community College. (2014). Gain Financial Independence with Next Step. Retrieved April 10, 2014,
from http://www.heartland.edu/news.jsp?newsID=2030
6. Findings
6.3 HOUSING & HOMELESSNESS


70
This section describes housing conditions and market
and affordability trends in recent years in McLean
County. It also discusses services for people
experiencing homelessness and this populations
perspectives. The county has experienced a boom in
housing supply in the last two decades. At the same time, housing has become less affordable,
especially for renters. Much of the housing development has consisted of suburban
neighborhoods built on the outskirts of Bloomington-Normal. Meanwhile, the demand for public
housing and shelter beds for the homeless population continues to exceed supply. Wait-lists at
agencies for housing and the existence of tent cities are challenges McLean County faces.

Housing supply boom and favorable homeownership rate

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2012, McLean County, Illinois had a total of
70,000 housing units, 7 percent of which were vacant. Of the total housing units, 67 percent
were in single-unit structures, 30 percent were in multi-unit structures, and 4 percent were
mobile homes. Thirty-five percent of the housing units were built since 1990.
62
This represents
an explosion in housing supply in the last 24 years that is slightly above the rate of population
growth (33%) since 1990.
Homeownership has been shown to have positive effects on individuals, families, and
communities through promoting neighborhood stability, greater civic involvement, and more
satisfaction with housing. In addition, homeowners typically have much higher rates of net
wealth than renters.
63
While 66 percent of occupied housing units in McLean County were
owner-occupied in 2012, and 34 percent were renter-occupied, the rates of owner-occupied
versus rental-occupied housing are changing throughout different areas of the County and the
Twin Cities.
64
Compared to U.S. Census statistics on McLean County, a higher percentage of
2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they own (82.1%) their homes, and a
lower percentage reported renting (16.4%) (see Figure 6.3.1).
The 2009 McLean County Regional Comprehensive Plan (MCRCP) says there are
decreasing rates of owner-occupied housing in many of Bloomington-Normals older
neighborhoods, and in the urban area, while rates of owner-occupied housing around the
perimeter of the Twin Cities are increasing due to significant growth in subdivisions. Both
Bloomington and Normal have taken measures to encourage residential development in the
urban core areas. The MCRCP notes that a decrease in owner-occupied housing in some older
neighborhoods is correlated with the increase in rental housing and may contribute to the
weakening of those neighborhoods. This decrease may also have the affect of reducing
revenues for school districts serving those areas.
65
Participants in the Normal, West
Bloomington, and East Bloomington 2014 Community Assessment focus groups expressed
safety concerns about the rental units in their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, participants in the
2014 Community Assessment focus group in Lexington expressed a desire more rental units.

HOUSING &
HOMELESSNESS

6. Findings


71
Figure 6.3.1 Percentage of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents who own homes

Density

The MCRCP states that housing is most dense near Downtown Bloomington and, least
dense in newer subdivisions such as Hawthorne Hills. As density decreases, potential costs
increase due to site development needs, increased infrastructure, and greater land and material
needs. The loss of productive farmland and an increase in distance and travel times from home
to work, shopping, and other activities are other potential impacts of decreased density.
66
The
MCRCP states, between 1990 and 2005, the increase in the incorporated area of Bloomington-
Normal outpaced population growth by roughly 10 percent. Some 2014 Community Assessment
survey respondents recognized the loss of farmland to development when asked What are you
most concerned about in McLean County?

Urban sprawl - farm lands disappearing!

Too much farmland is being destroyed for new homes and schools. More attention is needed in
Bloomington's West side.

too many sub-divisions too much building

Rental housing more expensive, less affordable

Fair Market Rent (FMR) is defined as the 40
th
percentile of gross rents for typical, non-
substandard rental units occupied by recent movers in a local housing market.
67
That is, 40
percent of rental prices are less than the FMR point in a given housing market (and 60 percent
are greater). FMR includes both the cost of rent and utilities. All public housing is excluded in
the calculation of FMR. Many housing subsidy programs designed to assist low-income renters,
such as the Section 8 housing and voucher programs, were developed considering FMR. They
provide subsidies to low-income renters paying for rent above the FMR line.
68

Fair Market Rent for a two-bedroom apartment in McLean County was valued at $735 in
2012. The Social Impact Research Center reports that this rent was approximately $129 above
16.4%
82.1%
1.6%
Rent
Own
Other
n=1590
6. Findings


72
a monthly rent that would have been affordable at the renter mean hourly wage of $11.66 in
McLean County.
69
FMR has since risen to $865. Figure 6.3.2 shows what HUD determined
FMR to be in McLean County and other Central Illinois counties for fiscal year 2014.

Figure 6.3.2 Fair Market Rent for McLean County and Central Illinois
counties, fiscal year 2014
Efficiency
One -
Bedroom
Two -
Bedroom
Three -
Bedroom
Four -
Bedroom
McLean $606 $657 $865 $1,217 $1,471
Peoria $431 $565 $725 $937 $1,125
Sangamon $472 $584 $743 $972 $1,024
Champaign $565 $708 $862 $1,111 $1,496
Macon $411 $525 $684 $952 $1,044
Kankakee $452 $574 $758 $1,067 $1,287
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2013, April 30). FY 2014
Fair Market Rent Documentation System. Retrieved March 7, 2014, from
http://www.huduser.org/portal/datasets/fmr/fmrs/FY2014_code/2014summary.odn?INPUT
name=METRO28100M28100*Kankakee+County%2B1709199999&data=2014&year=201
4&fmrtype=Final&incpath=%24incpath%24&selection_type=county&path=%24path%24&s
tname=Illinois

With only two exceptions, McLean County has the highest fair market rental prices
compared to other Central Illinois counties with cities of comparable size. Nowhere in Central
Illinois are the rental prices higher for an efficiency, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom housing
unit. For one-bedroom and four-bedroom housing units, McLean County rental prices are
second only to Champaign County.
An individual working 40 hours per week making the mean renter hourly wage of $11.66
in McLean County earns $1,865.60 per month before taxes. If that person is living in an
efficiency apartment paying the fair market rent of $606 per month, 32.5 percent of their income
is already spent on housing before taxes.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines affordable housing
as housing that costs no more than 30 percent of a households net income. For 2012, the US
Census Bureau states, The median monthly housing costs for mortgaged owners was $1,328,
nonmortgaged owners $513, and renters $770. Twenty percent of owners with mortgages, 15
percent of owners without mortgages, and 48 percent of renters in McLean County, Illinois spent
30 percent or more of household income on housing.
70
Nearly half of renters (48.4%) were
paying more than 30 percent of their income on rent in 2012 (see Figure 6.3.3) compared to
34.3 percent of renters in 1999.
71
This is a 14 percent increase in 13 years. Additionally, the
Social Impact Research Center reports that 25.7 percent of households in McLean County were
severely burdened by their rent between 2008 and 2012, meaning at least half of household
income was spent on housing.
72

6. Findings


73
Figure 6.3.3 Percentage of McLean County occupants spending 30
percent or more on housing, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and Housing Narrative Profile: McLean
County, IL, 2012, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January
24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.
xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_NP01&prodType=narrative_profile

As shown in Figure 6.3.4, between 1999 and 2012, the percentage of renters paying 35
percent or more of their household income on housing in McLean County rose 16.2 percent,
from 27.5 to 43.7.

Figure 6.3.4 Portion of household income spent on housing among
renter-occupied units in McLean County, 1999 and 2012

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics:
McLean County, IL, 2000, Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF-3) Sample Data. Retrieved
January 24, 2014 from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
Owners with
mortgage
Owners without
mortgage
Renters
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Less than
15
percent
15 to 19
percent
20 to 24
percent
25 to 29
percent
30 to 34
percent
35
percent
or more
1999
2012
6. Findings


74
productview.xhtml?pid=DEC_00_SF3_DP4&prodType=table
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Housing Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2012

Key informants were aware of the decrease in the availability of affordable housing in
McLean County, and described some of the challenges this creates:

In the general rental market (not subsidized), it is hard to find places, especially for families with
a lot of children. If something happens to disrupt income, they are booted out of their apartment
very quickly. If we can keep people from becoming homeless, we save time, money, and prevent
other subsequent issues from occurring.

Housing is so expensive here; rental as well as owner-occupant. Theres very little affordable
housing. There is section 8. But there are people who dont qualify for that but still need housing
and cant afford to rent an apartment for $600 a month. To me, that has been a growing problem.
The cost of housing in this community is very high. In downstate Illinois, we have the most
expensive housing by far. These newly constructed apartments are $1,000 a month. Even the
lower-end stuff is expensive. Ive got a son . . . he makes minimum wage. He was sharing an
apartment with 3 other guys because that was all he could afford.

We need to get government to have businesses build subsidized housing complexes for the low
income. The only things being built right now are fancy, upscale residences. If individual landlords
are renting out property, they should consider renting to low income, but many are afraid of taking
on issues that are associated with poverty.

As 82.1 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents were home-
owners, the largest percentage (27.6%) reported spending nothing on housing each month. The
median monthly housing cost was $600-899; that is half of the population pays above and half
pays below this housing cost category.

Figure 6.3.5 Money spent on housing each month by 2014 Community

27.6%
19.4%
22.1%
13.5%
9.7%
3.3% 2.2%
2.2%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
(n=1528)
Median= $600-899
6. Findings


75
Figure 6.3.6 shows what renters in McLean County are paying according to the U.S.
Census Bureau. One third of renters pay between $500 and $749 per month on rent; the
majority of renters pay more. Median rent in McLean County is $770.
73

Figure 6.3.6 Percentage of occupied rental housing units by monthly
rent, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Housing Characteristics: McLean County,
IL, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/
productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP04&prodType=table

Median family income

HUD develops Estimated Area Median Income standards that determine eligibility for a
number of federal housing programs. Affordable housing, defined as costing 30 percent of net
income or less, should be available to families falling in the low-income range. This includes all
families earning less than 80 percent of the communitys Area Median Income.
74
Under HUD
standards, a McLean County family of four making $63,900 or less in fiscal year (FY) 2014
would qualify as low-income. Families considered low-income, especially those making 30
percent of median income, face financial barriers to owning a home. For families that are unable
to afford buying a home, having access to quality, affordable rental housing is critical.
As seen in Figure 6.3.7, HUD estimated median income for a family of four in
Bloomington-Normal at $81,700 for FY 2014.
75
Figure 6.3.8 shows that median family income
has been consistently on the rise in Bloomington-Normal since 2007. As a general rule, HUD
considers a home priced at 2.9 times a familys annual income as affordable.
76
The average
price of a home sold in Bloomington-Normal in 2013 was slightly below $172,000.
77
Thus, a
family making the median income in Bloomington-Normal could afford a home priced up to
$236,930.

0.0%
5.0%
10.0%
15.0%
20.0%
25.0%
30.0%
35.0%
Less than
$200
$200 to
$299
$300 to
$499
$500 to
$749
$750 to
$999
$1,000 to
$1,499
$1,500 or
more
6. Findings


76
Figure 6.3.7 FY 2014 HUD-estimated area median income for a
family of four and low-income ranges in Central Illinois
Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs)

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (n.d.). FY 2014 Income
Limits Documentation System. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.huduser.org/portal/datasets/il/il2014/2014summary.odn based on table 6.3
on page 79 in the MCRP 2009.

Figure 6.3.8 Median family income for the Bloomington-Normal MSA,
fiscal years 2007-2014

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2013, December 18). Data
Sets: Income Limits. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.huduser.org/portal/datasets/il.html

Average home price and sales

The average price of a home sold in Bloomington-Normal in 2012 was $171,991 (see
Figure 6.3.9). That is down from a high of $177,194 in 2008, and well above the 2002 level,
when the average price was $144,641.

$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
$80,000
$90,000
$100,000
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Central Illinois MSAs*
Median Family
Income
Low Income: 30% to
80% of median
Bloomington-Normal $81,700 $24,500 to $63,900
Springfield $69,600 $20,900 to $55,700
Champaign-Urbana $66,800 $20,350 to $54,300
Peoria $63,700 $19,100 to $50,950
Decatur $63,700 $18,050 to $48,100
Danville $53,300 $17,500 to $46,650
6. Findings


77
Figure 6.3.9 Bloomington-Normal average home price, 2002-2012

Source: Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). Demographic
Profile: Bloomington-Normal Home Sales. Normal, IL: Bloomington-Normal Economic
Development Council. Retrieved January 24, 2014 from http://www.bnbiz.org/Data-
Center/Demographic-Profile.aspx

The number of home sales in Bloomington-Normal is rebounding from a two-year lull in
2010 and 2011 (see Figure 6.3.10). Sales of single family homes, condominiums, and zero lot
line residences increased 14.4 percent in Bloomington-Normal in 2013, according to the
Association of Realtors. Association President Chuck Montgomery . . . doubts the planned
drawdown of several thousand insurance industry workers in town over several years will much
affect home sales, a January 2014 WGLT article reports.
78
Montgomery anticipated less new
residential construction in 2014. The average price of a home in 2013 was relatively unchanged
from the year prior, up only one percent. About 2,500 homes were sold in Bloomington-Normal
in 2012, up from 2,048 in 2011.
79
As seen in Figure 6.3.10, annual home sales tended to drop
as the average price of a home increased between 2004 and 2008.

Figure 6.3.10 Bloomington-Normal annual home sales, 2002-2012

$100,000
$125,000
$150,000
$175,000
$200,000
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
6. Findings


78
Source: Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). Demographic
Profile: Bloomington-Normal Home Sales. Normal, IL: Bloomington-Normal Economic
Development Council. Retrieved January 24, 2014 from http://www.bnbiz.org/Data-
Center/Demographic-Profile.aspx

Home foreclosures

Following the burst of the housing market bubble in 2008, many people found
themselves locked into mortgages they could not afford. McLean County foreclosure filings
peaked at nearly 600 in 2010, but have since dropped to slightly under 500 in 2012. That figure
is still above the pre-recession level in 2004, when filings were under 350.
80
Faculty and
students at Illinois Wesleyan University studied foreclosure patterns in Bloomington-Normal
between 2006 and 2013, and found that the highest density of foreclosures occurred in West
Bloomington during this period.
81

Public housing demand and trends

The Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) indicates the demand for subsidized housing
in McLean County outpaces its supply. Subsidized housing offered through the Housing
Authority consists of a system of rent vouchers and public housing. As of 2014, the Housing
Authority administers 685 vouchers for dwelling units under the Section 8 program, a BHA
official said. Section 8 housing units are privately owned units inspected by the Housing
Authority to ensure that they meet basic standards. Individuals and families participating in the
Section 8 program select their own privately owned unit. BHAs waiting list for Section 8
vouchers closed on October 1, 2010, at which time there were 890 households on the list.
Currently, (as of 1/13/14) there are 412 households on the list, the official said.
In addition to administering the Section 8 program, BHA also owns 628 units of public
housing at 10 different developments. There is also a waiting list to get into housing owned by
BHA. Currently (as of 1/13/14) there are 91 households on the waiting list for public housing . . .
As of 1/13/14, there are 33 single-person households (out of 91 total households) on the waiting
list for public housing. Among those 33 single-person household applicants, 14 indicate a
disability (which may or may not affect their housing needs), the BHA official said.

Figure 6.3.11 Section 8 vouchers by type in McLean County

Sec. 8 Voucher Type/Program
Number of
Vouchers
Housing Authority of the City of Bloomington
430
Single Room Occupancy (SRO)
10
Shelter Plus Care (SPC)
5
Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)
10
McLean County Housing Authority
230
TOTAL
685
Source: Bloomington Housing Authority, January 15, 2014

6. Findings


79
The Bloomington Housing Authority provided information on the waiting period for
getting into public housing and identified trends in Section 8 and public housing:

The waiting period for a family depends on three factors: (1) turnover of existing tenants, which is
somewhat unpredictable; (2) the size of the unit being soughtcurrently the waiting list for two-
bedroom units is by far the longest; and (3) the applicant familys preference points, which are
used to rank applicants in accordance with properly established local policies. It should also be
noted that an applicant household requiring a unit with specific characteristics (e.g. a two-
bedroom unit with no stairs) have to wait much longer than a family without special requirements.

The Housing Authority identified additional issues:

Wood Hill Towers is now more than 40 years old. As these senior apartments get older, more
and more new senior housing is added to the Bloomington-Normal market, and these newer units
tend to be larger with more amenities. This increased market competition makes the aging
facilities at Wood Hill Towers comparatively less attractive, which creates a challenge for the
Housing Authority to maintain acceptably high occupancy rates at the Towers.

Declining federal funding and short-term fiscal crises (e.g. the 2013 budget sequester) make it
very challenging for the Housing Authority to continue operating in a fiscally prudent and
sustainable manner.

The aging stock of housing units in the Housing Authoritys portfolio makes maintenance and
renovation a challenge.

Due in part to the continuing economic slump and the scarcity of affordable housing in other
parts of the Midwest (the Chicago area in particular), the proportion of out-of-town applicants for
public housing in Bloomington seems to be continuing to rise.

The economic recovery has been especially slow to reach low-wage workers, making self-
sufficiency goals for public housing residents particularly difficult to achieve.

While the number of extremely low-income families in the community has grown, there has not
been a proportional increase in housing units affordable for these households.

Portability of Section 8 vouchers presents an administrative challenge for this program.

There is a shortage of landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program.

The Development Director at BHA concluded that demand for public housing will
increase as rental housing becomes less affordable:

Clearly, the demand for public housing exceeds the supply as demonstrated by the waiting list.
Furthermore, the waiting list only represents a portion of the demand for public housing. The
waiting list also serves as a deterrent to eligible households to apply for public housing. As the
percentage of rental housing considered affordable to households continues to decrease as a
share of the total housing stock, this demand will only increase in the future.

People experiencing homelessness

Although Bloomington-Normal is relatively affluent compared to other Central Illinois
cities (see Figure 6.3.7), there are also populations in great need. PATH reported there were
approximately 250 people experiencing homelessness in McLean County in October 2013.
6. Findings


80
Approximately 1,577 persons received assistance related to homelessness in McLean County in
the last year. This includes emergency shelter, relocation, receiving identification, and other
types of assistance. A variety of people request assistance; many are families, of a racial/ethnic
minority, and younger in age. Those who are single tend to be over the age of 30, according to
PATH.
Demographic data on homelessness in McLean County is combined with data from 11
other Illinois Counties included in the Central Illinois Continuum of Care including Logan,
Mason, Menard, Piatt, DeWitt, Vermillion, Iroquois, Ford, Kankakee, and Livingston. Individuals
who are sheltered more than once are subject to being counted each time they seek shelter.
Thus, the numbers may be inflated by those who are sheltered multiple times. Of the 1,082
individuals who were sheltered in Continuum of Care Counties in 2012, 50.5 percent were
White, 43.3 percent were Black, 5.3 percent were multiple races, and less than 1 percent were
another race.
82

In addition, PATH conducts counts of the number of people experiencing homeless in
McLean County. In 2013, approximately 202 persons and 294 households were sheltered from
homelessness in McLean County, and 12 persons and 7 households were experiencing
homelessness unsheltered (see Figure 6.3.12). Sheltered homelessness refers to persons or
households living in a domestic violence or emergency shelter, or in transitional or permanent
supportive housing. Unsheltered homelessness refers to persons or households residing in a
location not intended for human habitation; for example, in a tent, abandoned building, car,
parking garage, or on the street.
83

One indicator of how many people are at risk of becoming homeless is the demand for
Emergency Care Funds. These funds, provided by United Way of McLean County, are
distributed by PATH to those with financial difficulties that may soon cause them to be
homeless. Approximately $8,000 is available per month, and requests for funding consistently
exceed the funds available. From July through November 2013, PATH distributed approximately
$40,000 in Emergency Care Funds and denied $91,000 in requests.

Figure 6.3.12 Homelessness in McLean County, 2013

Source: (L. Kimbrough, PATH, personal communication, April 18, 2014).

0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
Sheltered Unsheltered
H
o
m
e
l
e
s
s

p
o
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n

Type of Homelessness
Persons
Households
6. Findings


81
Homeless shelters and services

Three agencies in McLean County provide emergency shelter with a combined total of
130 beds; this figure is down from the 173 beds reported to be available in 2000.
84
These
agencies include Neville House, the Salvation Army Safe Harbor Shelter, and Home Sweet
Home Ministries, all located in downtown Bloomington. In addition, about 20 organizations,
consisting mostly of churches and emergency shelters, provide food and meals to the homeless
population.
The Salvation Army Safe Harbor Shelter and Social Service Center in downtown
Bloomington provides emergency shelter beds, food and basic necessities to single homeless
adults. Individuals aged 18 years or older are allowed to stay for up to 8 weeks, with the
possibility of extension based on progress. Those seeking admission must have a clearance
card from the Bloomington Police Department or receive approval from a case manager. Case
managers work with shelter residents to guide them toward appropriate resources that will help
them achieve independence. Approximately 400 volunteers are involved in the meal program by
providing and preparing food for shelter residents.
85
In addition, the shelter offers job
development services, case management, mental health counseling, life skills, laundry and
shower facilities, a warming shelter during winter, and breakfast and lunch.
Home Sweet Home Ministries offers emergency shelter, food, clothing, case
management, and ministry to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. To be
admitted to the shelter, individuals must schedule an interview with a case manager to ensure
eligibility, have a valid state photo ID or drivers license, receive a clearance card from the
Bloomington Police Department, and complete Home Sweet Home Ministries paperwork.
Individuals who remain at the shelter beyond a few weeks are required to work part- or full-time,
participate in the shelters Work Service Program, take college or GED courses, or attend
courses taught at the shelter on a variety of topics including job readiness, anger management,
interview skills, and addiction recovery.
86
According to Home Sweet Home Ministries 2013
Annual Report, the agency served an average of 84 residents per night in 2012. Home Sweet
Home also operates a kitchen that served 131,981 meals in 2012, and regularly serves more
than 100,000 meals annually.
87

The Childrens Home and Aide Society provides a Crisis Nursery where children can
spend the night. Mid-Central Community Action, Salvation Army, and Chestnut Health Systems
offer transitional housing to homeless individuals and families. The Community Health Care
Clinic also offers services to those without insurance, including those experiencing
homelessness.
Key informants and focus group participants acknowledged the presence of several
programs, the coordination of agencies helping the homeless, the generosity of the community,
and the good condition of the shelters:

They do quite a bit here compared to other places. There are more programs. Even the shelters
are nice. Before I got my social security I was out of work for a couple years and I was in
homeless facilities in different states and they dont do as much as they do here.

I have had to use PATH, like when I got my place, they assisted me with my first and last
months rent. I have used Recycling 4 Families, they furnished my place. One time I had to go to
(a local church) when I needed help with paying a bill. I went there and the pastor really didnt ask
me too many questions. I showed him the bill that it was delinquent. He didnt pry into my life as
to why I couldnt pay it. I thought that was nice. And he had never met me before.

Agencies are working well together to help individuals and families.
6. Findings


82
The Salvation Army and Home Sweet Home Ministries shelters were at capacity in
January, 2014. A Pantagraph article said that during the blizzard the first week of 2014, the
Salvation Armys Safe Harbor Shelter dormitories housed 18 women and 40 men.
88

Additionally, about 30 people slept on cots in the warming center.
89
During the storm, Home
Sweet Home Ministries shelter was full with about 95 residents and 10 to 15 people on a
waiting list.
90

Key informants and focus group participants said there are sometimes delays getting
people experiencing homelessness into the shelters because of waiting lists and the number of
people being served:

In the rural areas, if a family is in need of housing, they move to Bloomington. Home Sweet
Home and Safe Harbor are two shelters in town but they are full with a waitlist. When someone
comes to Bloomington from a rural area, there may not be a bed available for them.

I think they try their best. I havent really talked to anybody much yet [since Ive been at Salvation
Army]. I have an appointment with a case manager tomorrow. I think they take a little too much
time to get to you. I know theyre trying and they have a lot of people to deal with so Im not
complaining about it.

I think sometimes it takes too long. Sometimes you have to wait 60 days. Well what do you do
until then? Its too cold to be sleeping outside.

Tent cities have formed in Bloomington in the last few years. A May 2012 Pantagraph
article reported on one camp that was located in the woods of the old railroad yard at 1000
Perry St.
91
The site was on private property with some of the group of about 10 homeless
people moving there after being pushed off of city-owned property earlier that year. Several
social service agencies reached out to this group offering help. A key informant expressed
concern that there is not enough awareness of this issue or focus on its underlying causes in
the larger community:

We need to be raising awareness to the community about the housing needs and the current
status of our community. A lot of people dont even know about the tent cities. There are four of
them.

Population challenges and recommendations

As with rental housing, key informants and focus group participants identified expensive
housing as a problem in McLean County for people experiencing homelessness. One individual
said, Hotels here are more expensiveyou can get a room in Florida for $159-169 a week. A
lot of places here want $300 a week. U.S. Census Bureau data indicate that seven percent of
the 70,000 housing units in McLean County, roughly 4,900 units, are vacant.
92
Participants in
the homelessness focus group recommended converting some of these empty units into more
affordable housing. One person commented, I see a lot of vacant houses and stuff like that. If
they could just renovate them and make them rooming houses, something that a single person
can afford on what they got.
One focus group participant who was staying at the Safe Harbor Shelter said that
substance use was a problem there:

The Shelter is clean. They say they dont let people in when theyve been drinking, but they do,
and they shouldnt. A lot of people come in and run their mouth when theyre drinking and it just
causes problems. It just makes it worse when theyre drinking, so they shouldnt be allowed to.
6. Findings


83

Some participants said that apathy of some people experiencing homelessness or the
people serving them make it difficult to help those persons. One participant said:

I think youre doing a fine job for the ones that want to be handled, but there are a lot who dont
want to get help. If you dont want to get out and look for them, you dont really care if you get a
solution or not.

Other participants said there is unawareness among people experiencing homelessness
of the range and type of services available to them. One individual said:

If youre in the shelter you get the resources faster because they want to get you out of the
shelter. If youre not in the shelter but still need assistance, where do you find them?

Participants also emphasized the importance of social workers and community agencies
keeping in touch with people who have received services, suggesting, Keep an ongoing
relationship with people. Call them once a month and check in. Finally, participants suggested
tailoring workforce and training programs to individuals interests and skills:

A lot of people in shelters are skilled. Theyre not being asked what theyre good at. Theyre only
being asked, What can I do for you?

There are a lot of people in jail who are actually smart. And if you can find out what theyre good
at, you can help them develop that. I worked at Home Sweet Home and that helped me fill in
gaps in my resume.

There needs to be more opportunities to get training.

Barriers to employment for the homeless population are also discussed in the
Employment section.

62
arrative_profile
63
Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development. (2010, December)."A Community in Bloom: An
Affordable Housing Needs Assessment of West Bloomington" Paper 3. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/arc_projects/3
64
arrative_profile
65
McLean County Regional Planning Commission. (2009). McLean County Regional Comprehensive Plan: A Guide
to Sensible Growth through Regional Cooperation. Bloomington-Normal, IL: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014,
from http://www.mcplan.org/egov/documents/1342739612_12279.pdf -pages 72 to 74
66
to Sensible Growth through Regional Cooperation. Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.mcplan.org/egov/documents/1342739612_12279.pdf - page 74
67
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Office of Policy Development and Research. (February,
1999). U.S. Housing Market Conditions Summary: Washington, DC, Retrieved February 11, 2014, from
http://www.huduser.org/periodicals/ushmc/winter98/toc.html
68
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Office of Policy Development and Research. (February,
1999). U.S. Housing Market Conditions Summary: Washington, DC, Retrieved February 11, 2014, from
http://www.huduser.org/periodicals/ushmc/winter98/toc.html
6. Findings


84

69
Heartland Alliance: Social Impact Research Center. (2013). Illinoiss 33%: Report on Illinois Poverty, McLean
County. Chicago, IL: Social Impact Research Center. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.ilpovertyreport.org/county/mclean-county#.UuKJQJznbct
70
arrative_profile
71
U.S. Census Bureau. (2000). Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2000, Census 2000
Summary File 3 (SF-3) Sample Data. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
le
72
Heartland Alliance: Social Impact Research Center. (2013). 50 YEARS LATER: REPORT ON ILLINOIS
POVERTY. Chicago, IL: Social Impact Research Center. Retrieved March 20, 2014, from
http://www.ilpovertyreport.org/county/mclean-county#.Uys6E5znJKG
73
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Housing Characteristics: McLean County, IL, 2012 American Community
ble
74
to Sensible Growth Through Regional Cooperation. Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from page
77 of http://www.mcplan.org/egov/documents/1342739612_12279.pdf
75
Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (n.d.). FY 2014 Income Limits Documentation
System. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.huduser.org/portal/datasets/il/il2014/2014summary.odn
76
City of Bloomington. (2010, January). Consolidated Housing and Community Development Plan: One Year Action
Plan 2010-2011. Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.cityblm.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=2361
77
Schlenker, Charlie. (2014, January 16). Recovery Continues in Bloomington Normal Realty Sector. Retrieved
January 17, 2014, from http://wglt.org/wireready/news/2014/01/08218_yr_end_homes1_181756.shtml
78
Schlenker, C. (2014, January 16). Recovery Continues in Bloomington Normal Realty Sector. Retrieved January
17, 2014, from http://wglt.org/wireready/news/2014/01/08218_yr_end_homes1_181756.shtml
79
Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). 2013 Demographic Profile: Bloomington-Normal
Homes Sales. Normal, IL: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.bnbiz.org/BloomingtonNormal/media/
Bloomington-Normal/Demographic%20Profiles/EDC_2013_Demographic_Profile_Final.pdf
80
Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). Demographic Profile: McLean County Foreclosure
Filings. Normal, IL. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.bnbiz.org/Data-Center/Demographic-Profile.aspx
81
Mendez-Carbajo, D. (2013, July 23). Dynamic Maps of Foreclosures. Map posted to http://blogs.iwu.edu/dmendez/
82
L. Kimbrough, PATH, personal communication, November 11, 2013.
83
United Way of McLean County. (March, 2013). 2012 Community Report. Retrieved April 18, 2014, from
http://www.uwaymc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Revised-Community-Report-March-15-2013.pdf
84
Applied Social Research Unit at Illinois State University. March, 2000, Assessment 2000: Health & Human
Services in McLean County: Bloomington, Illinois, published by United Way of McLean County, Accessed as pdf
85
The Salvation Army. (n.d.) Safe Harbor Shelter. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.sabloomington.org/
86
Home Sweet Home Ministries. (n.d.) Services. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.hshministries.org/services/shelter/threshold-program
87
Home Sweet Home Ministries. Home Sweet Home Ministries 2013 Annual Report. Retrieved January 24, 2014,
from http://www.hshministries.org/upload/files/Annual%20Report%202012.pdf
88
Sweich, Paul. (2014, January 6). Homeless shelters at capacity, other service agencies close. Pantagraph.
Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/homeless-shelters-at-capacity-other-service-agencies-
close/article_d203957e-7737-11e3-beff-001a4bcf887a.html
89
90
91
Wells, Rachel. (2012, May 26). Homeless again: Illegal campsite to be shut down by property owner. Pantagraph.
Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/homeless-again-illegal-campsite-to-be-shut-down-by-
property/article_df9ad4ae-a6f0-11e1-95d8-0019bb2963f4.html
92
6. Findings


85

arrative_profile
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


86
EMPLOYMENT
This section discusses how people in McLean County
are employed, the unemployment rate, the gender
earnings gap, and some of the concerns 2014
Community Assessment key informants, focus group participants, and survey respondents
shared related to employment. Almost one-fourth of the working population in McLean County is
employed in the education, health care, and social assistance sector. Health practitioners and
health care support occupations are the fastest growing job fields in the country.
93
One in five
employed persons in McLean County work in finance, insurance, real estate, or rental and
leasing. The unemployment rate remains higher than normal, hovering around seven or eight
percent (see Figure 6.4.5), and men earn 29 percent more than women on average (see Figure
6.4.6).
94
Finally, 2014 Community Assessment key informants, survey respondents, and focus
group participants expressed a desire for more local businesses and access to good paying
jobs.
Gainful employment is pivotal to ensuring quality of life. A significant number of factors
affect ones ability to find such employment, including educational level, criminal history,
economic conditions, and local and regional characteristics. Roughly two thirds (66% or
approximately 90,648 people) of those 16 years and older in McLean County were employed in
2012; 30 percent were not in the labor force.
95
Figure 6.4.1 shows how the 90,648 people in the
labor force were employed in 2012.

Figure 6.4.1 Employment in McLean County, 2012
Class of worker in
2012
Number Percent
Private wage and salary
workers 74,387 81.9
Federal, state, or local
government workers 12,795 14.1
Self-employed workers
in own not incorporated
business
3,466 3.8
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and housing narrative profile: McLean
County, IL, 2012, 2012 American community survey 1-Year estimates. Retrieved January
24, 2014, from

Nearly 60 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents work for pay. Of
those respondents working less than 40 hours a week (n=280), 29 percent said they want to
work full-time (see Figures 6.4.2 and 6.4.3). Barriers to full-time employment are discussed later
in this section.

6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


87
respondents who work for pay

Figure 6.4.3 Community Assessment survey respondents who
work less than 40 hours, but want to work full-time

Employment by industry

Bloomington-Normal was ranked 26
th
in the Nation and 1
st
in Illinois as the Best Small
Place for Business and Careers by Forbes magazine in 2013.
96
The 2014 Community
Assessment team gathered employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Current Employment Statistics program, which surveys about 144,000 businesses and
government agencies, representing approximately 544,000 individual worksites, in order to
provide detailed industry data on employment, hours, and earnings of workers on nonfarm
payrolls for all 50 states.
97
BLS breaks down employment into industry Supersectors. The
58.5%
41.5%
Yes
No
n=1585
28.9%
71.1%
Yes
No
n=280
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


88
2014 Community Assessment gathered data on the following Supersectors in Illinois and the
Bloomington-Normal MSA, which includes McLean County:

Mining, Logging and Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Transportation and Utilities
Information
Financial Activities
Professional and Business Services
Education and Health Services
Leisure and Hospitality
Other Services
Government

This data does not include proprietors, self-employed, unpaid family or volunteer
workers, farm workers, or domestic workers.
98
Figure 6.4.4 shows the largest industry in
McLean County is Professional and Business Services, accounting for nearly one in five jobs
(19.51%). According to BLS, this industry includes Professional, Scientific, and Technical
Services, Management of Companies and Enterprises, and Administrative and Support, Waste
Management, and Remediation Services. Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
include activities such as legal advice and representation; accounting, bookkeeping, and
payroll services; architectural, engineering, and specialized design services; computer services;
consulting services; research services; advertising services; photographic services; translation
and interpretation services; veterinary services; and other professional, scientific, and technical
services.
99
Management of Companies and Enterprises comprises (1) establishments that
hold the securities of (or other equity interests in) companies and enterprises for the purpose of
owning a controlling interest or influencing management decisions or (2) establishments (except
government establishments) that administer, oversee, and manage establishments of the
company or enterprise and that normally undertake the strategic or organizational planning and
decision making role of the company or enterprise. Establishments that administer, oversee,
and manage may hold the securities of the company or enterprise.
100
Administrative and
Support, Waste Management, and Remediation Services includes activities such as office
administration, hiring and placing of personnel, document preparation and similar clerical
services, solicitation, collection, security and surveillance services, cleaning, and waste disposal
services.
101

Government is the 2
nd
largest employment industry in McLean County, representing 16
percent of total non-farm jobs (see Figure 6.4.4). This industry Supersector includes local, state,
and national government workers. Financial Activities is the 3
rd
largest industry Supersector,
accounting for 14 percent of total non-farm jobs (see Figure 6.4.4). McLean Countys economy
is more heavily dependent on this industry than Illinois overall. This Supersector includes the
Finance and Insurance, Real Estate, and Rental and Leasing industries. Bloomington-Normal is
the headquarters of State Farm and COUNTRY Financial which are among the areas largest
employers. State Farm is McLean Countys single largest employer, accounting for 14,935 full-
time equivalent jobs in 2013. COUNTRY Financial employs about 1,955.
102

In November 2013 State Farm announced it will likely move some claims jobs out of
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


89
Bloomington. The company did not specify how many jobs or when, but did confirm that it
intends to maintain a significant presence in Bloomington. State Farm began planning new
operational hubs in Phoenix, Dallas, and Atlanta metropolitan areas in 2013.
103
The company
plans to grow its Richardson, Texas and Atlanta area hubs from 5,000 to 8,000 employees.
104

State Farm has responded to concerns about the new hubs and potential job loss stating:

Hub facilities will be staffed with new hires as well as with a relocation of some existing
employees from facilities across the United States. State Farm's corporate headquarters and
large employee presence will remain in Bloomington. The company's employee level in
Bloomington has and will continue to fluctuate around 15,000. All of State Farm Bloomington
facilities remain fully utilized"
105

Although a major change in the number of State Farm jobs in Bloomington is not
expected, some 2014 Community Assessment respondents perceive an economic vulnerability
due to a reliance on State Farm. When asked, What are you most concerned about in McLean
County? some responded:

What would happen if State Farm had a major cutback? We rely very much on one Employer.

That economy is tied to State Farm

State Farm moving people out

State Farm leaving & jobs & economic impacts for small business owners (then to everyone in
the community)

The possibility of State Farm shipping jobs out of state. Continued cuts in social services.

This perspective may partially explain the ambivalence toward the economy that
emerged in 2014 Community Assessment survey responses to the question What are you most
concerned about in McLean County? Seven percent of (or 109 of 1520) respondents listed
economy/financial concerns. Yet, 9 percent (or 139 of 1540) said the economy was what they
like most about McLean County.
The 4th largest Supersector in McLean County is Leisure and Hospitality at 12 percent,
followed by Education and Health services at 11 percent (see Figure 6.4.4). With two
universities, two major hospitals, and numerous nursing and day care facilities, Bloomington-
Normal has a wealth of education and health service organizations. According to BLS, the
fastest growing occupations in the U.S. between 2012 and 2022 are healthcare support
occupations, and health practitioners and technical occupations.
106

6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


90
Figure 6.4.4 Percentage of total non-farm jobs by industry Supersectors,
2013

Data from: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). SAE Databases: Employment, Hours, and Earnings
State and Metro Area, Illinois, and McLean County. Retrieved May 2, 2014 from
http://www.bls.gov/sae/

Unemployment higher than in recent years

Unemployment in Bloomington-Normal is hovering above long-term average levels.
Figure 6.4.5 shows the local unemployment rate was 4 percent in 2007. By August 2013, it had
risen to 7.1 percent. Still, the County is recovering from the Great Recession, which spanned
from December, 2007 to June, 2009, better than a majority of Illinois counties.
107
It was ranked
84 out of Illinois 102 counties for unemployment by the Illinois Department of Employment
Security in August 2013. Alexander County ranked first with an unemployment rate of 12.5
percent.
108

A high unemployment rate and sluggish economy typically results in an increased
demand for social services. At a time when the poverty and unemployment rates in Illinois are at
historic highs, the state has responded by slashing social service spending. Between fiscal
years 2002 and 2012, after adjusting for inflation and population change, human services
appropriations were cut by $1.64 billion in Illinois.
109
Fortunately, however, the annual
unemployment rate appears to be slowly falling from its peak in 2010 on the local, state, and
national levels. The February 2014 unemployment rate for the Bloomington-Normal Metropolitan
Statistical Area was eight percent (not seasonally adjusted).
110

0% 10% 20% 30%
Mining, Logging and
Construction
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Transportation and Utilities
Information
Financial Activities
Professional and Business
Services
Education and Health
Services
Leisure and Hospitality
Other Services
Government
Illinois
Bloomington-
Normal MSA
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


91
Figure 6.4.5 Annual unemployment rate: United States, Illinois, and
Central Illinois Counties, 2003 to 2012

Data from two sources: U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2013,
March 1). Local Area Unemployment Statistics, Unemployment Rates for States.
Retrieved January 24, 2014 from http://www.bls.gov/lau/lastrk12.htm
U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d). Local Area Unemployment
Statistics Map. Retrieved April 17, 2014 from http://data.bls.gov/map/MapToolServlet

Gender earnings gap

U.S. Census data revealed stark inequality in median earnings between genders in
McLean County across levels of educational attainment. The largest earnings gap is between
men and women with Bachelors degrees: men made $24,114 more on average than women in
2012. For the entire McLean County population 25 years and over with earnings, men made an
average of 37 percent more than women in 2012.
111

The gender median earnings gap also exists for the State of Illinois and the United
States. In Illinois, the largest earnings gap is for those holding graduate or professional degrees.
Men in this category made $26,396 more on average than women in 2012. For the entire
population 25 years and over with earnings, men made an average of 29 percent more than
women in 2012.
112
Like Illinois, the largest gap in the United States is also in the category of
those holding graduate or professional degrees with men making $27,115 more on average
than women in 2012. For the entire U.S. population 25 years and over with earnings, men made
an average of 28 percent more than women in 2012.
113

Figure 6.4.6 shows the earnings difference calculated by UWMC staff from analysis of
U.S. Census data. Each bar represents how much higher the median earnings were for men
than women in 2012 by education in McLean County, Illinois, and the nation. McLean County
has the highest earnings inequality in four out of the six education categories including the
population 25 years and over with earnings. In contrast to the state and nation, however,
McLean County has much lower earnings inequality between men and women holding graduate
or professional degrees.

0.0%
2.0%
4.0%
6.0%
8.0%
10.0%
12.0%
14.0%
McLean
Illinois
United States
Peoria
Sangamon
Champaign
Macon
Kankakee
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


92
Figure 6.4.6 Gender median earnings gap by educational attainment and geographic
area, 2012 (in 2012 inflation-adjusted dollars)

Data from: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational Attainment: United States, Illinois, and McLean County, 2012
American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014 from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1501&prodType=
table

Put another way, Figure 6.4.7 shows the median earnings by gender for full-time, year-
round workers in McLean County, Illinois, and the United States. In 2012, the largest median
earnings gap existed in McLean County. Median earnings for full-time, year-round workers in
McLean County were $53,340 for men and $38,619 for women; this is a 28 percent difference.

Figure 6.4.7 Median earnings by gender for full-time, year-round
workers: McLean County, Illinois, United States, 2012

Data from three sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and housing narrative
$0
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
$25,000
$30,000
Population
25 years
and over
with
earnings
Less than
high school
graduate
High school
graduate
Some
college or
associates's
degree
Bachelor's
degree
Graduate or
professional
degree
McLean County
Illinois
United States
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
McLean County Illinois United States
Male
Female
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


93
profile 2012: United States, Illinois, and McLean County, 2012 American Community
Survey 1-Year Estimates. Retrieved April 17, 2014 from

Barriers to full-time employment

In the Health and Health Care section, it is shown that self-reported general health is
correlated with mean income. 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents with higher
income levels typically reported better health. Figure 6.4.8 shows that health issues present the
most frequent barrier to securing full-time employment for those that want it. These two findings
could be related, such that those with poor health are unable to find full-time work, earn a higher
income, and access resources that would improve their general health.
In addition to health issues (43.3%), 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
specified other barriers to full-time employment including being a caregiver (28.2%), needing
more skills or education (17.7%), and transportation issues (10.6%).

barriers to full-time employment

Skill training and unemployment services

Overall, 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents rated employment training as
the fourth highest additional programming need in McLean County with a mean of 3.66 (on a
scale of 1 to 5, 1 being not needed and 5 being very much needed). As mentioned in the
Income and Poverty section, 68.3 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
felt there is a need for additional services for the unemployed/job seekers in McLean County.
Key informants and focus group participants also frequently cited skills training and
development as needs:

There are gaps in addressing income. Minimum wage is . . . not enough to support a family and
cover rent. There needs to be more skill development for low income individuals.

28.4%
43.3%
10.6%
17.7%
I am a caregiver
Health Issues
Transportation
Need more skills or
education
n=282
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


94
Theres a lack of soft skills training, like relating to an employer, showing up on time, getting
along with coworkers.

Access to professional jobs [is a problem for non-English speakers]. [They are] not able to get
jobs that provide growth opportunities. They tend to get the jobs that most people dont like to do.
A lot travel for work because they cant find jobs in Bloomington-Normal.

Participants in the Spanish-speakers focus group identified the need for different kinds of
affordable skills courses for parents with children in primary or secondary school:

There should also be more options to study (for adults) with childcare: computer classes, English
classes, driving classes to get your license.

Transportation

In addition to 30 survey respondents, key informants and focus group participants also
identified transportation as a barrier to employment, especially for rural populations and people
without a drivers license:

A person wants to work but cant because of transport this could also be for a lack of drivers
license.

Transportation in rural areas is a challenge. Its hard for people to find public transportation into
the cities where there are jobs.

Participants in the Spanish-speakers focus group said obtaining a drivers license can be
a challenge and make it difficult to find and keep employment. This issue was also identified as
the top concern for the Latino community in the Hispanic and Latino Community Study: Needs
and Assets.
114

Access to good paying jobs and job satisfaction

In addition to accessing employment, gaining employment that pays well was a concern
for 2014 Community Assessment participants. In the Income and Poverty section, it was noted
that one in four survey respondents felt their household did not earn enough to cover monthly
expenses. Lack of good paying jobs surfaced as a concern among many focus group
participants and key informants, some of whom felt that it is especially difficult for non-English
speakers and low-skilled workers to find jobs that pay a decent wage:

Theres a lack of good-paying jobs for low-skilled workers. There was a time you could find nice
jobs with good benefits for low-skilled laborers in manufacturing and on street-crews for
municipalities. Those jobs are hard to find now.

A lot of these companies are just paying minimum wage now and no benefits because they can
get away with it. People may have to accept a lower standard of living because the income
potential is not there.

[There is a] lack of blue collar jobs with wages sufficient to support a family.

Language is a barrier to getting professional jobs. The employers are going to hire someone
without a language barrier before they hire someone who has difficulties speaking the language.
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


95

Participants in the University of Illinois, College of Law survey and focus groups
identified stable hours, high pay, short commute, and a teamwork atmosphere as the most
desirable job traits. Participants who had young children said they wanted employment outside
the house that paid enough to cover childcare and also allowed them enough time to be at
home with their family. Participants said the financial environment and lack of education were
their greatest barriers to satisfactory employment. Most felt that investing in their education
would help them secure such employment.

Desire for more local businesses

Participants in the Lexington, Normal, West Bloomington, and East Bloomington 2014
Community Assessment focus groups expressed a desire for more local businesses in or near
their neighborhoods. Participants in the Lexington focus group said the Great Recession caused
many Main Street businesses to close, and that much potential economic activity is being lost
because many residents work and shop outside the local community. West Bloomington focus
group participants wanted to see a grocery store, and a greater variety of businesses located in
or near their neighborhood:

I would like to see more variety of businesses in our town. Not necessarily chains but I don't
want to cross Veteran's Parkway to get what I need.

I would like to see more businesses in the inner city area. Im a contractor and I build homes. I
hate going to work knowing I have to clear out east side cornfields and build new houses, and I
cant do it in West Bloomington.

The absence of local businesses in the Normal neighborhood was seen as a contributor
to the low sense of community in that neighborhood.

Discriminatory hiring practices as a barrier to employment

Key informants and focus group participants were concerned that there is discrimination
in the kind and quality of employment available to people with disabilities (mental and physical),
people experiencing homelessness, and people with a criminal record:

We have a population of people whose IQ is borderline developmentally disabled, and most lack
skills to obtain sustainable employment. They can only get part-time employment with no
benefits.

People with criminal records [particularly those with a drug charge, like marijuana] are
discriminated against and have a very difficult time going into hiring fields like health, accounting,
marketing . It used to be that if you have a felony and move to another state, you could probably
get the job. But now employers do background checks instantly . . . This is going to become more
of a problem because people who have received felonies for possession of small amounts of
marijuana are stamped with a felony and it is very hard for them to turn around their life. There
has to be a point where you can let them rejoin society. There need to be more routes to expunge
records. This is the most difficult population to serve.

Theres the stereotype that because youre homeless youre not dependable. You know a lot of
bad things happen to good people. Just because were homeless dont mean were bad people.
That stereotype makes getting employment very hard.
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


96

It also makes it hard to get a job when you dont have an address. And if you put the shelter
address they dont want to hire you.

Employment difficulties for people with disabilities are discussed further in the Seniors,
Caregivers, and People with Disabilities section.

People retiring earlier

A key informant for the senior population said that many people are choosing to retire
earlier. While this could open up more positions for younger people, it will also likely put more
stress on the social service system if the individuals who are retiring are not financially prepared
to do so:

The baby boom generation is retiring fairly young. State Farm pushes you out at 62. At 55 they
start talking to you about retirement and what youre thinking, but at 62 they start pushing you out.
Ive seen a lot of people here who retired at 55 to 60.

Apathy of some who are unemployed

One key informant noted the difficulty in reaching those who dont seem to want to seek
help to get into the workforce:

30 percent of those who are unemployed are gung-ho and ready to get back into the workforce,
and the other 70 percent are apathetic or hardheaded and dont want help. These people need to
be pushed to take advantage of the services.

Misleading degree and training programs

For those who are utilizing education or training services, key informants expressed
concern that many people are being lured into degree or training programs that do not result in
the kind of employment opportunities they are expecting:

Theres a lot of deception from short certificate trainings and colleges about career paths. . . .
Online colleges advertise on veteran websites for vets to use their GI money to go back to school.
These advertisements tell the vets that they take an online class for six months and make $70k a
year, but its not true and there is no one there guiding them. They are not receiving career
specialist help, readiness training, and career research help.

There are a lot of people who come out of ISU with a 4-year degree and theyre flipping
hamburgers and working retail or landscaping making $8.50 an hour.

People are training for areas that dont produce jobs and colleges need to tell people that these
areas are not going to get them a job. . . . Computer jobs are not appropriate for older people with
little experience with computers. They will not be able to compete with the eighteen-year-old that
has spent his whole life on a computer.

6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


97
Existing programs helpful, but greater awareness, collaboration needed

Focus group participants and key informants acknowledged the presence of several
workforce agencies that help people search and prepare for jobs, and recommended that the
community hold more educational fairs, add more job training programs, and explore additional
avenues for creating jobs:

The National Career Readiness Certificate is on its way to becoming recognized in the state of
Illinois. This will show employers how ready you are to become a good employee.

There are a number of agencies who offer job search and resume help.

I think the question would be are we being as efficient as we can? I think, how can the education
system engage the business community to increase their involvement in education, be it
providing advice on how to better prepare students for todays work environment, what resources
can they bring to the table to assist our schools in better preparing those students. How can we
better engage them in that type of partnership? We have some opportunities with McLean County
COMPACT an education, business, government partnership to better align education and
business interests.

People are trying to get the word out about programs but people (potential clients) are still not
getting the message.

If you came up with more programs, you would just be duplicative. What we have now is
working, we just need more people to be aware of and use the services.

93
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2013, December 19). Employment by major occupational
group, 2012 and projected 2022. Retrieved January 17, 2014, from http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_101.htm
94
U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics. (April 9, 2014). Local area unemployment statistics:
Bloomington-Normal, IL metropolitan statistical area. Retrieved April 10, 2014, from
http://www.bls.gov/web/metro/laummtrk.htm
95
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Population and housing narrative profile: McLean County, IL, 2012, 2012 American
community survey 1-year estimates. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
arrative_profile
96
Forbes. (August, 2013). The Best Small Places for Business and Careers. Retrieved April 17, 2014 from
http://www.forbes.com/best-places-for-business/list/small/#page:1_sort:0_direction:asc_search:_filter:Illinois
97
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). State and Metro Area Employment, Hours, & Earnings. Retrieved May 2,
2014 from http://www.bls.gov/sae/
98
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). State and Metro Area Employment, Hours, & Earnings. Retrieved May 2,
2014 from http://www.bls.gov/sae/
99
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). Industries at a Glance: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services:
NAICS 54. Retrieved May 2, 2014 from http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag54.htm
100
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). Industries at a Glance: Management of Companies and Enterprises:
NAICS 55. Retrieved May 2, 2014 from http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag55.htm
101
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2014). Industries at a Glance: Administrative and Support and Waste
Management and Remediation Services: NAICS 56. Retrieved May 2, 2014, from
http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag56.htm
102
Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council. (2013). 2013 demographic profile: Top 20 major employers
2013. Normal, IL: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.bnbiz.org/BloomingtonNormal/media/
Bloomington-Normal/Demographic%20Profiles/EDC_2013_Demographic_Profile_Final.pdf
103
State Farm expects to move some jobs from Bloomington. (2013, November 1). The State Journal-Register.
Retrieved January 17, 201,4 from http://www.sj-r.com/x450315650/State-Farm-expects-to-move-some-jobs-from-
Bloomington?refresh=true
6. Findings
6.4 EMPLOYMENT


98

104
Shaver, P. (2014, February 28). State Farm hubs generate growth in South. Pantagraph. Retrieved February 28,
2014, from http://www.pantagraph.com/business/local/state-farm-hubs-generate-growth-in-south/article_19b90ec7-
5a18-5d6d-8407-b97877ffe937.html
105
Shaver, P. (2014, February 14). State Farm to expand hubs in Texas, Georgia. Pantagraph. Retrieved May 2,
2014, from http://www.pantagraph.com/business/local/state-farm-to-expand-hubs-in-texas-georgia/article_ae0b7ef8-
bad7-5678-baa6-fa0ea9cd7168.html
106
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2013, December 19). Employment by major occupational
group, 2012 and projected 2022. Retrieved January 17, 2014, from http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_101.htm
107
Isidore, C. (2010, September 20). Recession officially ended in June 2009. CNN Money. Retrieved April 18, 2014,
from http://money.cnn.com/2010/09/20/news/economy/recession_over/
108
Illinois Department of Employment Security, Economic Information and Analysis. (2013, November) Illinois county
unemployment rate rankings not seasonally adjusted: 102 counties ranked highest to lowest. Retrieved January 24,
2014, from
http://www.ides.illinois.gov/Custom/Library/Statistic/LAUS/ILCountyMonthlyUnemploymentRateRanking/countyrank.P
DF
109
Kaslow, Y., & Terpstra, A. (2012). Ramifications of state budget cuts to human services: Harms vulnerable
populations, increases job loss, decreases economic activity. Chicago, IL: Center for Tax and Budget Accountability
& Social IMPACT Research Center. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.ctbaonline.org/sites/default/files/reports/ctba.limeredstaging.com/node/100/edit/1386181216/CR_2012.03.
22_IPHS_Private_Impact_Public_Cuts_Full_FINAL_revised.pdf
110
U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics. (April 9, 2014). Local area unemployment statistics:
Bloomington-Normal, IL metropolitan statistical area. Washington, D.C.: Author. Retrieved April 10, 2014, from
http://www.bls.gov/web/metro/laummtrk.htm
111
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational attainment: McLean County, IL, 2012 American community survey 1-
year estimates. Washington, D.C.: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/
tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1501&prodType=table ; Calculated $31,324/$49,409
= .634, 1 - .634 = .37
112
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational attainment: Illinois, 2012 American community survey 1-year estimates.
Washington, D.C.: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/
pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1501&prodType=table ; Calculated 30652/43325 = .71, 1 - .71 = .29
113
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Educational attainment: United States, 2012 American community survey 1-year
estimates. Washington, D.C.: Author. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/
tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_S1501&prodType=table
114
Bliss, R. (2009). Hispanic and Latino Community Study: Needs and Assets. Retrieved from Conexiones Latinas de
McLean County, Web Site: http://conexionesmc.org/nosotros/
6. Findings
6.5 HEALTH & HEALTH CARE


99
HEALTH &
HEALTH CARE
This section discusses general health and priority health
issues in McLean County, available health services,
access and usage, health insurance and the Affordable
Care Act, physical health and obesity, mental health and
mental health services, alcohol and substance abuse,
oral health, childrens oral health, and eye care. Secondary data analysis shows that obesity,
mental illness, and poor oral health are among the most significant health threats in McLean
County. At one in three people, McLean Countys obesity rate is higher than the Illinois average.
However, obesity received scarce attention from 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents, key informants, or focus group respondents. In contrast, mental health was widely
discussed. One in ten 2014 Community Assessment respondents reported experiencing eight or
more days in the last thirty when their mental health was not good. Nearly one in four 2014
Community Assessment survey respondents who said they needed but did not receive mental
health services cited cost as their largest obstacle to obtaining help. Finally, oral care was also a
common topic of discussion. More than 60 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents who did not use dental services in the last 12 months said cost was an obstacle to
obtaining these services.

General health

A communitys health is promoted through the mental, physical, and spiritual health of its
residents. The County Health Rankings and Roadmap, a collaborative project between the
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute,
ranks the health of almost every county in the United States. It considers individual measures of
health such as adult obesity, excessive drinking, and physical inactivity, as well as social and
economic factors such as high school graduation, child poverty, and violent crime. For overall
health outcomes, which include quality of life and length of life measures, McLean County was
ranked 31 out of the 102 counties in Illinois in 2014, down from a ranking of 18 two years prior.
For health factors, which include clinical care, health behaviors, physical environment, and
social and economic factors, McLean County ranked fifth in 2014, unchanged from 2012.
115

County Health Rankings for 2014 show approximately 13 percent of McLean County residents
consider themselves to be in poor or fair health.
116

Nearly 16 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said their health
was Fair or Poor. More than two-thirds rated their health as Good or Very Good (70.8%),
and more than one-tenth rated their health as excellent (12.7%) (see Figure 6.5.1). 2014
Community Assessment survey data is formatted similarly to data collected by the Illinois
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (IBRFSS) allowing for comparisons. Illinois BRFSS
data for 2009 show 13.8 percent more McLean County adults reporting excellent/very good
health than 2014 Community Assessment respondents; 11.9 percent fewer people reported
good/fair health in the 2009 BRFSS than in the 2014 Community Assessment.
117

6. Findings


100
Figure 6.5.1 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents self-
reported health status

2014 Community Assessment survey respondents self-reported health status is related
to their income. Overall, those with higher income levels reported better health (see Figure
6.5.2). The average 2012 income of the 204 respondents who reported Excellent health is
$109,626. The average estimated income of the 203 respondents who reported Fair health
was $47,723. In the University of Illinois College of Law survey, respondents said that in the last
two years they or a member of their household had to go without the following: medical attention
(30%); mental health care (20%); dental care (66%); prescriptions or medication (35%); and
health insurance (35%).

Figure 6.5.2 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents self-
reported health status by average income

12.7%
37.7%
33.1%
12.6%
3.3% 0.6%
Excellent
Very good
Good
Fair
Poor
Don't Know
n=1608
$68,556
$48,442
$47,723
$73,103
$90,108
$109,626
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
Don't
Know
Poor Fair Good Very Good Excellent

6. Findings


101
Community Health Assessments, Plans, and Priorities

OSF Saint Joseph Medical Center released a Community Health-Needs Assessment
(CHNA) in 2013 which analyzed the overall well-being of McLean County residents and
identified health issues. The CHNA compiled public data and a survey of McLean County
residents (n=774) about health behaviors, access to health care, and quality of life issues. The
CHNA predicts the incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and
obesity will increase in the future. It identifies aging and living in poverty as two demographic
issues that greatly impact health and wellbeing. The CHNA says obesity, dental, and mental
health are among the most critical issues facing the community.
118

The McLean County Health Department (MCHD) completed its fourth, five-year
Community Health Plan (CHP) in 2012. The CHP identifies the Countys top three health
problem priorities, the risk factors that contribute to them, and the effective intervention
strategies that will be used to reduce their negative impact on the health status of the
community.
119
Obesity, mental health, and oral health are the top three health problem priorities
identified in the 2012 CHP.
120
In addition to identifying needs, the CHP is intended to improve
the health of McLean County residents by developing partnerships to implement CHP
strategies, encourage health awareness, and promote healthy lifestyle choices which can
reduce the risk of death and disability and improve health.
121

2014 Community Assessment health focus group participants identified what they
consider to be the most important issues related to the health care delivery system in McLean
County. Many of the comments made by 2014 Community Assessment key informants and
survey respondents also fall within at least one of these eight identified issue areas:

Access to care
Wellness education
Coordination between service providers
Access to medication
Better access and coordination around mental health
Language barriers
Transportation
Health care in jail

2014 Community Assessment health focus group participants were then asked to
identify the most important health issues in McLean County. In no particular order, these were:

6. Findings


102
Domestic violence
Mental health
Dental care
Access to care
Addiction
Wellness education
Coordination between service
providers
Obesity
Access to medication
Sexual assault and violence
Diabetes
Infant mortality
Heart disease
Physical mobility issues (getting
around in the home)

Child abuse and neglect
Better access and coordination
around mental health
Language barriers
Cancer
Elder abuse
Infant mental health
Hoarding
Transportation
Health care in jail
Vision care
Violence
Housing
Homelessness
Poverty

Participants grouped this set of issues into eight major categories, with subgroups in
three of them. These were:

Mental Health
o Infants and Children
o Hoarding
o Addiction
o Depression
Violence
o Domestic
o Elder
o Child
o Sexual
Chronic Disease
o Cancer
o Diabetes
o Heart Disease
o Obesity
Dental Care
Vision Care
Mobility
Infant Mortality
Education about Wellness

Participants ranked these eight major categories in order of the most important, second
most important, and third most important. Mental health was ranked the most important issue.
Violence and chronic diseases were ranked the second and third most important issues
respectively. In prioritizing mental health and chronic disease in the top three categories, the
2014 Community Assessment health focus group results are consistent with priorities in the
CHP and CHNA. While dental care was included among the top eight most important issues in
6. Findings


103
the focus group, violence was seen as a more significant health threat. Mental health and oral
health are discussed further below.

Health care services, access, and usage

The county has an array of health services including two hospitals, OSF St. Joseph
Medical Center and Advocate BroMenn, and the McLean County Health Department. A search
of McLean Countys general medical care services in PATHs online database returned
Chestnut Health Systems, Chestnut Family Health Center, Immanuel Health Center, and the
Community Health Care Clinic.
122
Chestnut Health Systems offers adult and adolescent
addiction and mental health services. The Chestnut Family Health Center provides screenings,
physicals, primary care, preventive care, and additional medical services to Medicaid recipients
in Bloomington-Normal. The Immanuel Health Center offers primary medical care, spiritual care,
social and behavioral health, and counseling services to the area population.
The Community Health Care Clinic is geared toward serving the uninsured population in
McLean County. The Clinic serves as the primary care provider for about 3,000 people. Most of
them work. All have been without health insurance, werent eligible for Medicaid and have
chronic diseasessuch as diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseasethat
require treatment.
123
According to the Clinics homepage, more than 200 volunteers, including
150 physicians, donate their time and knowledge to the clinic.
124

The McLean County Health Department is an additional service provider. The Health
Department operates a Dental Clinic for those meeting financial requirements,
125
and provides
immunizations to children ages 0 to 18 who are uninsured, underinsured, or have Illinois Public
Aid, AllKids, or Medicaid insurance coverage.
126
This year, the Health Department began
accepting private insurance for immunizations for both adults and children.
127

Additional agencies listed in the PATH database focus on disease prevention and health
education, such as the YMCA, the Center for Healthy Lifestyles, and Advocate BroMenn
Community Wellness Services. The YMCA has exercise equipment in its downtown facility, and
offers a swim program, youth sports and family programs, and day camps. The Center for
Healthy Lifestyles is run through OSF. St. Joseph Medical Center and offers customized
preventive health programs on a variety of topics including obesity, heart disease, stress
management, nutrition and fitness. Finally, Advocate BroMenns Community Wellness Services
offers a variety of health-oriented classes including Pilates, Yoga, First Aid, and Zumba Gold,
according to PATHs database.
128

Almost 90 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents report having a
regular doctor and nearly 80 percent report visiting the doctor for preventive care at least once a
year (see Figure 6.5.3). Just less than four percent never go to the doctor for preventive
services (see Figure 6.5.4). These percentages are slightly higher than the 2009 IBRFSS data
where 86.3 percent of McLean County adults said they had a usual person as health care
provider and 73.1 percent indicated they had had a routine checkup in the last year.
129

6. Findings


104
Figure 6.5.3 2014 Community Assessment survey respondent
response to Do you have a regular doctor?

Figure 6.5.4 Frequency of preventive care for 2014 Community

Access to health care is affected by many factors including mobility, whether or not one
is insured, income, place of residence, health status, and the number of providers in the area.
2014 Community Assessment key informants and focus group participants said having a low-
income is a barrier to health care and wellness:

People with low-incomes, their basic priorities are getting by day-to-day. They have to choose
between, Am I going to see a doctor or am I going to eat today?

Poverty needs to be listed (as a contributing factor to health problems.)
89.2%
10.8%
Yes
No
n=1605
79.9%
13.8%
2.5%
3.8%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
At least once a
year
Every 1-5 years More than every
5 years
Never
n=1604
6. Findings


105
Having adequate, healthy foods is a huge issue for people in poverty.

Dental services for low income seniors cant get preventative oral care; they can only get
emergency care, like teeth extraction. Dental care is so important for your overall health.

Figure 6.5.5 lists the location of health care facilities in the County. Although primary
care practices are in some communities outside Bloomington-Normal, all specialized and
hospital care in McLean County is located in Bloomington-Normal, which makes specialized
care less accessible for rural residents. Through their Medivan program, YWCA McLean County
offers door-to-door transportation to and from appointments, hospital stays, nursing homes,
and your home for McLean County residents who are unable to access public transportation
because of physical or mental reasons, or rural residence.
130
However, several 2014 Community
Assessment key informants and focus group participants said being a rural resident was a
barrier to accessing health services:

Rural areas dont have anything. Rural health care is an issue. Theyre not getting access to
education.

There is no access to health and human services in the rural areas. There arent any hospitals,
clinics, or even a Doctor. There might be a doctor in LeRoy. If you can afford it, you can travel to
Bloomington-Normal for services.

There are some areas (of McLean County) that dont have health providers in the geographic
area. Youve got to go to Bloomington-Normal, which isnt necessarily easy for people in rural
areas. Especially for people who have to depend on public transportation in these areas, that is a
big barrier.

Figure 6.5.5 Location and types of health care facilities in McLean
County
Healthcare Facility Type of Facility Location
Advocate BroMenn
Medical Center
Medical Center/Hospital Normal
OSF Saint Joseph Medical
Center
Medical Center/Hospital Bloomington
Chestnut Family Health C
enter
Community Clinic Bloomington
Community Health Care
Clinic
Community Clinic Normal
John M. Scott Health
Resources Center
Immanuel Health Center Community Clinic Bloomington
McLean County Center for
Human Services
Community Cancer Center Community Clinic Normal
McLean County Public
Health Department
Public Clinic Bloomington
Source: Advocate BroMenn Medical Center. (2013). Community Health Needs Assessment
2011 2013. Retrieved January 28, 2014 from
http://www.advocatehealth.com/documents/CHNA/BroMennCHNA12-30-13.pdf

6. Findings


106
Many key informants and focus group participants specifically identified the lack of
psychiatrists and child psychiatrists in McLean County:

We lack virtually any mental health services for kids.

There is inability to access certain services in McLean County. We have a hard time attracting
psychiatrists.

There are glaring deficiencies. We dont have enough psychiatrists. Dont have enough child
psychiatrists or crisis intervention services. We dont have a continuum of services. We feel the
agencies arent aware of what services are being provided.

No psychiatrists in McLean County serve children under 12 who are uninsured or on Medicaid.

There are no psychiatrists that serve uninsured.

About three-quarters of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents reported
using dental (77.4%) and vision (72.0%) services in the last 12 months. Most respondents did
not use mental health services (72.1%) or the emergency department (78.7%) (see Figure
6.5.6).

usage of medical services in past year

The 2014 Community Assessment also shows gaps in access to eye care in McLean
County; 512 survey respondents (28%) said they did not receive eye care in the last year.
These 512 respondents indicated what prevented them from accessing eye care in the last year
including: No need for eye care (41%); Cost (40%); Other obstacles (13%); Lack of time
(11%); and Insurance will not pay for service (10%).

77.4%
72.0%
27.9%
21.3%
22.6%
28.0%
72.1%
78.7%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
Dental
(n=1588)
Vision
(n=1583)
Mental Health
(n=591)
Emergency
Room
(n=1595)
Yes
No
6. Findings


107
Health insurance and the Affordable Care Act

The variety of services available makes no difference if one is financially unable to use
them. One 2014 Community Assessment survey respondent described their experience losing
insurance:

There are a lot of people with no job to get insurance. Therefor can't afford insurance and don't
have money to pay doctor bills. I am a survivor from cancer. When I lost my job, I lost my
insurance therefor I have not had a mammogram or pap in about 5 years.

Nearly 15 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they did not
fill a prescription because of its cost in the last year. The McLean County Health Department
estimates that 17,126 individuals in the County (10.1% of the overall population) do not have
health insurance.
131
The Community Health Needs Assessment says that socioeconomically
disadvantaged groups who are typically at higher risk for illness and disease have lower rates
of insurance coverage. Thus, a vicious cycle results where individuals who are at the highest
risk for diseases are unable to receive screening, thus perpetuating a cycle of disease. This is
compounded by unhealthy lifestyles.
132

Almost six percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents indicated they
do not have any kind of health insurance (see Figure 6.5.7). Of the 1,453 respondents with
insurance, nearly half (46.8%) said they have employer-based health insurance, and 15.7
percent said they were publicly insured. Data from the CHNA survey indicated that those living
in poverty are disproportionately more reliant on Medicaid or have no insurance.
133

Figure 6.5.7 Types of health insurance among 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents who said they were insured

Most 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents have both health (93.6%) and
prescription (90.3%) insurance coverage. Smaller percentages of respondents have dental
(60%) and vision (62%) insurance coverage (See Figure 6.5.8). Results from the CHNA survey
indicate that medical, dental, and mental health care is limited for those living in poverty:

46.8%
7.4%
15.7%
30.1%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
I have employer
provided health
care insurance
I pay for my own
health care
insurance
I have Medicaid
or Medicare
I have some
combination of
the above
(n=1453)
6. Findings


108
24% of people living in poverty in McLean County consider the Emergency Department their
primary source of health care. Furthermore, 44% of people in poverty were unable to obtain
medical care when they needed it in the past year. . . With regard to prescription drugs, 46% of
individuals living in poverty in McLean County were unable to fill a prescription in the past year
because they lacked health care coverage. With regard to dental care, 44% of individuals living in
poverty in McLean County need dental care and were unable to obtain it last year and 25% of
individuals living in poverty in McLean County needed counseling and were unable to obtain it in
the last year. Affordability was cited as the leading impediment to various types of health care.

134

Figure 6.5.8 Percentage of 2014 Community Assessment
respondents with health-related insurance coverage

The federal Affordable Care Act law, which mandates that individuals sign up for health
insurance or face a financial penalty, went into effect at the beginning of 2014. The law
mandates that insurance cover ten essential health benefits including: ambulatory patient
services; emergency services; hospitalization; maternity and newborn care; mental health and
substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment; prescription drugs;
rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices; laboratory services; preventive and wellness
services and chronic disease management; and pediatric services, including oral and vision
care.
135

Among numerous other outcomes, the law is anticipated to reduce the number of
McLean County residents without health insurance. Many people have enrolled at home through
the Affordable Care Act Website, making it difficult to estimate how many in McLean County
have signed up. A Pantagraph article reports that as of February 2014, counselors at the
McLean County Health Department had helped more than 300 people navigate the enrollment
process. Of these, 93 percent enrolled for insurance coverage and 60 percent qualified for the
States expanded Medicaid program. Among the 40 percent who were ineligible for Medicaid,
slightly more than half enrolled for insurance through the marketplace. Chestnut Family Health
Center assisted more than 150 people with the enrollment process, 70 of whom enrolled in
Medicaid, as of February 11, 2014. LIFE Center for Independent Living helped 443 individuals
enroll for coverage by early February with 36 enrolled through Medicaid.
136
Under the new law,
Medicaid coverage expanded on January 1, 2014 to cover anyone at or below 138 percent of
93.6%
60.0%
62.0%
90.3%
5.9%
39.1%
36.9%
9.3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Health
(n=1606)
Dental
(n=1612)
Vision
(n=1595)
Perscription
(n=1603)
Insured
Uninsured
6. Findings


109
the federal poverty line.
137

Physical health, overweight, and obesity

Nearly 54 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents reported no
physically unhealthy days in the last 30 days, and 13 percent reported eight or more physically
unhealthy days in the last month (see Figure 6.5.9). These percentages are comparable to 2009
IBRFSS results: 55.7 percent of McLean County adults reported no physically unhealthy days;
32.8 percent reported one to seven days in the past 30 when physical health was not good; and
11.5 percent reported eight to 30 days.
138

Figure 6.5.9 Number of days in the last month physical health was
not good for 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents

A persons weight can be affected by a variety of factors such as behavior, environment,
and genetics.
139
The definition of overweight is different for adults and children. For adults,
overweight is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as having a
body mass index (BMI) at 25 or greater. For children, the CDC plots BMI-for-age growth charts.
Overweight is defined as having a weight that falls within the 85
th
to 95
th
percentile of the BMI-
for-age chart.
140
In 2008, 39.5 percent of adults and 11.1 percent of youth in McLean County
were overweight.
141
While that may seem high, consider that 62.2 percent of adults and 15.5
percent of adolescents in Illinois were overweight in 2010.
142

Obesity puts people at risk for a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease,
which was the leading cause of death in McLean County from the years 2000 to 2008.
143
Like
the definition of overweight, the definition of obesity also varies for adults and children. For
adults, the CDC defines obesity as having a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30. BMI is
calculated by weight and height, and is generally considered to be a reliable indicator of body
fat.
144
For children, obesity is defined as having a BMI at or above the 95
th
percentile
corresponding to the BMI-for-age chart. The CDC has online BMI calculators for children and
adults.
Over the past 20 years physical inactivity and unhealthy eating have contributed to an
53.9%
28.1%
13.0%
4.9%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
None 1-7 days 8 or more days Don't know / not
sure
(n=1603)
6. Findings


110
epidemic of obesity and chronic disease across the United States. Two-thirds of U.S. adults and
nearly one-third of children and teens are currently obese or overweight, putting them at
increased risk for more than 20 major diseases, according to the Community Health Plan
(CHP).
145
Nationally, the CDC reports that 35.7 percent of American adults were obese in 2009
and 2010. For children, the rate was 16.9 percent during that same period. In Illinois, 28.2
percent of adults and 14.6 percent of children were obese in 2010. The CHNA finds that obesity
is a serious concern in McLean County. This is corroborated by the CHP, which notes that 22
percent of adults and 5.1 percent of youth in McLean County were obese in 2008. The
percentage of obese adults in McLean County rose to 32 percent by 2014.
146

Obesity is associated with a variety of health concerns, and increases the costs of health
care. Obese individuals are at increased risk of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease,
hypertension, and certain cancers.
147
Together, overweight and obesity represent the second
leading cause of death in the country. The McLean County Health Department reports nearly
seven out of 10 U.S. adults are overweight and three out of 10 are obese. Each year, an
estimated 300,000 U.S. adults die of causes related to obesity.
148
In addition, obesity is
contributing to rising medical costs. The estimated annual medical cost of obesity in the U.S.
was $147 billion in 2008 U.S. dollars; the medial costs for people who are obese were $1,429
higher than those of normal weight, according to the CDC.
149
Figure 6.5.10 shows McLean
County has a higher rate of obesity than the State of Illinois.

Figure 6.5.10 Percentage of obese adult residents, 2014

Source: County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. (2014). County Snapshot: McLean
County, IL. Retrieved March 27, 2014 from
http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/outcomes/o
verall/snapshot

The consequences of obesity become particularly alarming when considering obesity in
children. Doctors know that the processes that lead to a heart attack or stroke often take
decades to progress to overt disease. It now appears, however, that these processes may be
starting earlier than once thought and that becoming obese in childhood, adolescence, and
young adulthood may accelerate them. The current generation of children may thus suffer the
adverse effects of cardiovascular disease at a younger age than did previous generations.
150

25%
26%
27%
28%
29%
30%
31%
32%
33%
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
McLean County
Illinois
6. Findings


111
While one in three McLean County adults is obese, only two survey respondents
discussed obesity in response to the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean
County? This may point to a lack of awareness about the prevalence of obesity in McLean
County and its human health and financial costs.

Mental health

Mental health is intimately tied to overall wellbeing. A larger percentage of 2014
Community Assessment respondents reported no mentally unhealthy days (64%) in the past 30
compared to no physically unhealthy days (53.9%). However, more than one in five survey
respondents experienced at least one day in the past 30 when their mental health was not good.
Using U.S. Census data on the estimated population of McLean County in 2012, this equals
36,696 people.
151
Ten percent of respondents reported having eight or more days in the past 30
when their mental health was not good. These figures compare closely with 2009 IBRFSS
results for McLean County: 66.9 percent of adults reported no mentally unhealthy days in the
past 30; 22.6 percent reported one to seven days; and 10.5 percent reported eight to 30 days.
152

Figure 6.5.11 Number of days in the last month mental health was
not good for 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents

An estimated one in four Americans over the age of 18 will suffer from a diagnosable
mental disorder in any given year.
153
Despite the high estimated number of those suffering, less
than half of those with a diagnosable mental illness pursue treatment.
154
Stigmatization
surrounding mental illness is one often-cited reason for the failure to seek treatment. As
explained in World Psychiatry:

Many people with serious mental illness are challenged doubly. On one hand, they
struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the disease. On the other,
they are challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result from misconceptions
about mental illness. As a result of both, people with mental illness are robbed of the
opportunities that define a quality life: good jobs, safe housing, satisfactory health care,
and affiliation with a diverse group of people.
155

64.0%
21.3%
10.4%
4.4%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
None 1-7 days 8 or more days Don't know / not
sure
(n=1602)
6. Findings


112

One key informant described it this way:

There is still a stigma associated with mental illness and a notion of not in my back yard. There
is a tendency to blame the person with the mental illness or turn a blind eye.

In addition to this social barrier, the uninsured have even fewer choices when it comes to
accessing treatment. If left untreated, serious mental illnesses can lead to devastating
consequences, such as suicide. The suicide rate in McLean County is 10.6 per 100,000.
156

PATH answers phone calls from individuals contemplating suicide on their Crisis hotline. Figure
6.5.12 shows the number of suicide calls to PATH increased greatly between 2008 and 2013.

Figure 6.5.12 Number of suicide calls received by PATH, 2008-2013

Source: Retrieved from PATH upon request

For the 236 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents who reported needing
but not receiving mental health services in the last year, almost one in four respondents
identified cost as the largest obstacle to obtaining mental health services (see Figure 6.5.13). In
the University of Illinois, College of Law survey conducted with PIPP applicants, one in five
respondents said they or a member of their household had to go without mental health care in
the last two years.

537
868
1078 1073
1159
1032
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
6. Findings


113
Figure 6.5.13 Obstacles to obtaining mental health services for 2014
Community Assessment survey respondents who indicated they
needed but did not receive services

Nearly half of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents selected Other and
were asked to state what the Other obstacle was. A majority of them indicated they did not
actually need mental health services. There were, however, a variety of additional obstacles
identified including:

need a psychiatrist

dont trust counselors/psychiatrists

providers not aligned with needs

time

busy

it doesnt fix work stress

lack of transportation

reluctant to deal with it

stopped due to cost, insurance does not pay

VA system a mess

cant miss work without FMLA coverage.

Attesting to the stigma surrounding mental health issues, two respondents said:

Not crazy!
24.2%
10.6%
15.3%
3.8%
46.2%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Cost Insurance
does not
cover
Do not qualify
for services
Can't get
appointment
Other
(n=236)
6. Findings


114

Im just upset (stressed out) from losing my job. Not crazy.

There is an increasing awareness and concern for mental health in McLean County. In
response to the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean County? 3.2 percent
of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents discussed health issues and many
referred specifically to mental health:

Conservative biases, lack of mental health care options (especially for children)

State of Illinois budget problems pushing more & more responsibility onto local government eg.
mental health services

lack of services for the mentally ill

treatment and supported housing for persons with mental illness

lack of mental health services, dental services & transportation for those at or below poverty
level with no insurance or on Medicaid.

Huge need for mental health services!

Lack of mental health services and the overall public opinion that services are readily available to
those in need. Many people in this area are ignorant as to how many mentally ill &
disadvantaged persons there are in the community. Sometimes I feel that they turn a blind eye.

Cuts to government programs means people who need help cannot always get it. Especially
mental health

Mental health services, declining funding, and other concerns

The health and human service system must be prepared to provide an adequate level of
care to residents in need of mental health services. According to PATHs database, the nearest
psychiatric hospital is the MacFarland Mental Health Center in Springfield, Illinois. McLean
County has no residential treatment facilities, no psychiatric day treatment, and no inpatient
mental health facilities. Many people suffering a mental health crisis enter the emergency room
for treatment. According to Advocate BroMenn Medical Centers 2013 Community Health Needs
Assessment, mental health was the number one reason for emergency room visits in 2010,
numbering 1,453 cases.
PATHs online database returned one agency for community mental health agencies, the
McLean County Center for Human Services, Inc. This facility, located in downtown Bloomington,
provides mental health treatment to those with the greatest need and fewest resources.
157
The
Center maintains a focus on community-based mental health treatment, providing services at its
downtown office and in the community. The Center offers adult and youth counseling, mental
illness recovery services, and medical services for those in need of psychiatric care. In addition,
a crisis team is on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, intervening in crisis situations. A
goal of the crisis team program is to determine the appropriate services in each situation and
help avoid unnecessary hospitalization. A December 2013 Pantagraph article notes that the
mobile crisis team consists of one staff member on nights and weekends. With an annual
budget of $777,000 for crisis services, including $373,000 from county mental health tax funds
and $403,000 in other grants, CHS has four crisis staff available during the day.
158

6. Findings


115
At the end of March, staff from the Center for Human Services told a County Board
advisory panel studying mental health needs that it can sometimes take multiple hours for staff
to respond to the volume of crisis calls coming into the Center. Crisis calls increased 15 percent
in 2013 over the year prior, according to a March Pantagraph article. The article notes that
approximately 25 people are on a waiting list to see a psychiatrist at CHS.
159

A search of general psychiatry returned one agency, Professional Associates of Illinois.
This agency includes two practicing psychiatrists and charges fixed fees. Psychiatric and
counseling services are offered to children, adults, teenagers, and families.
160

A search for childrens/adolescent residential treatment facilities returned The Baby
Fold. This agency, located in Normal, serves children ages 3 through 13 with severe behavioral
disorders, psychiatric disorders, learning disabilities, and victims of trauma.
161

A search of general counseling services returned 13 agencies in McLean County
including Chestnut Health Systems, Agape Counseling, Center for Youth and Family Solutions,
Advocate Medical Group Behavioral Health, Childrens Home + Aid, Collaborative Solutions
Institute, Eastland Psychological Services, Heart Matters Counseling, Professional Associates
of Illinois, and Lutheran Child and Family Services.
There have been fewer resources coming from the state for mental health services and
the state-run acute psychiatric care beds for McLean County residents have been eliminated.
This has been tied to the increased occurrence of those suffering serious mental health issues
being picked up by law enforcement, and accessing medications through the criminal justice
system, rather than more appropriate channels.
162
The increase in inmates diagnosed with
mental illness sparked a recent proposal to construct a mental health unit at the McLean County
Jail. Key informants discussed mental health services funding cuts and the perceived gaps in
mental health care:

Unfortunately, the funds needed to expand community (mental health) care . . . dont exist.

Over the last 7 years, because of problems with the states economy, and as funding has been
cut from behavioral health and in other areas, there has been an expansion in need, particularly,
for the working poor, uninsured and under-insured.

You cannot cut funding on a community level, as well as cut number of psychiatric beds that are
available, and expect there to not be a cascading effect.

Access [to mental health services] has been limited to individuals in severe crisis. This leaves
behind those who are experiencing moderate mental illness, which can later turn into severe
mental illness. Funding for psychiatric care to the uninsured and underinsured has been cut
dramatically.

There are gaps in services for mental health needs of seniors. (Area agency) sometimes has to
stop serving people because they have dementia or Alzheimers or other mental health needs.

Some key informants made suggestions for services and funding:

Theres need for permanent supportive housing. There are people who wont do well on their
own forever. Permanent supportive housing helps people with mental illness or other disabilities.

A tax levy at 5 cents on every $100 was approved to fund mental health services through the
Health Department, however; only 3.3 cents are actually being collected from tax payers. We
could collect 1.7 more cents! This would equal roughly $700,000 more dollars for mental health
services.
6. Findings


116

There needs to be greater funding for all of the mental health services

There were 23 calls to the CHS Crisis Team from the McLean County Jail in 2013.
These calls are made when counselors working for the county are not available. Overall, calls
from new clients experiencing a mental health crisis increased from 1,571 in 2012 to 2,604
during the first six months of 2013.
163

The Community Health Plan (CHP) notes a lack of attention but growing concern for
mental health issues locally. Overall, services for mental health have eroded and access to
services that are available is unequal. The reality is that many persons with mental health
conditions have limited access to essential health and social care and are more likely to
experience disability and premature death.
164

Alcohol/substance abuse

According to the 2009 IBRFSS, nearly one-fifth of McLean County adults are at risk for
acute/binge drinking.
165
Although local-level data is scarce, the CHP indicates that substance
use and abuse often affects those with mental illness. Specifically, of all people diagnosed as
mentally ill, 29 percent abuse either alcohol or drugs.
166
The CHP notes that funding for
substance abuse treatment programs has declined in recent years, causing the detoxification
program at Chestnut Health Systems to be eliminated. In addition to funding and service cuts,
key informants identified another problem agencies working in substance abuse and mental
health often face:

State-funded services are siloed. State funding restricts agencies to using funding for a specific
population and/or specific service. The primary diagnosis has to align with the funding. Example:
State funding may restrict a program to only using funding to treat individuals whose primary
conditions is a form of mental illness. The program, therefore, would not be able to treat someone
with a developmental disability as their primary condition with comorbid or underlying mental
health issues. Providers struggle with how to meet all needs of a client and fight over whose job
it is to treat the individual and what needs to be treated first. Example: Someone may struggle
with substance abuse and suffer from a mental illness. One agency may receive funding to treat
mental illness, not substance abuse and another agency may receive funding to treat substance
abuse, not mental illness. One says they cant treat the mental illness until the individual is sober
and can be reliable to follow therapy. The other says they cant treat a substance abuse problem
without addressing the underlying mental health issue first. Enough people fall in these gaps to
warrant the need for services to address both.

We sustain our services on fees, taxes, etc, but there arent a lot of grants available. Theres
competition for limited resources, and theres also a lot of silo-ing of service.

When you have multiple providers, who gets the money? It feels like were all in these siloes just
drowning.

Oral health

The Community Health Plan notes that proper oral health is essential to quality of life.
The Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) explains that poor oral health has been tied
to a number of severe diseases, including heart disease. Only about half of respondents in the
CHNA survey reported having had a dental checkup in the last year. In the 2009 IBRFSS, 10.4
percent of respondents said they had not been to the dentist in more than two years; another
6. Findings


117
9.8 percent said they had not been in one to two years.
167
These statistics may be partially
explained by the lower rate of insurance coverage for dental care; 39 percent of 2014
Community Assessment respondents said they did not have dental insurance. Of the 448, 2014
Community Assessment, survey respondents who identified barriers to dental services, 61
percent selected cost as the main obstacle (see Figure 6.5.14). There were 361 respondents
(23%) who said they had not visited a dentist in the last 12 months.

Figure 6.5.14 Obstacles to receiving dental care for 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents who did not receive dental care in
the past 12 months

According to the CHNA, those who are younger, non-White, less educated, low-income,
male, or homeless were less likely to see a dentist. In addition, 44 percent of respondents living
in poverty were unable to access dental care when they needed it in the last year. The most
frequently cited reasons for this were not having dental insurance, and being unable to afford
copayments.
168
According to the CHP, Medicaid does not pay for preventive oral health care for
adults in Illinois. Medicare does not pay for dental services and thus leaves many older adults
with no means to pay for dental care. The CHNA survey found that among those living in deep
poverty, only 26 percent had a dental checkup in the last year.
169
Individuals with private
insurance are more likely to visit a dentist than those who are publically insured.
170

In 2013, 343 adults were examined and treated by dentists through the Health
Departments dental clinic. Adult services are offered on Fridays and include exams,
extractions, fillings, preventive education, and x-rays. Adults served through the dental clinic pay
an out-of-pocket fee determined by household income.
171

Another issue affecting access to oral health care is the ratio of dentists to the total
population. According to County Health Rankings, McLean Countys dentist to population ratio is
below the national benchmark (see Figure 6.5.15). In other words, there are not enough
dentists.

61%
31%
11%
7%
14%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Cost No need Fear Lack of time Other
(n=448)
6. Findings


118
Figure 6.5.15 Population to dentist ratio in 2014

McLean
County
Illinois
National
Benchmark
Dentists
1,759:1 1,531:1 1,500:1
Source: Source: County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. (2014). County Snapshot:
McLean County, IL. Retrieved March 27, 2014 from
http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/outcomes/2
/snapshot

2014 Community Assessment key informants and focus group participants identified
access to dental services for low-income persons as an issue in McLean County:

We have a lot of dentists, but we dont get as much volunteer time from dentists.

With dentists, access for low-income people is difficult.

Dental services for low incomeseniors cant get preventative oral care; they can only get
emergency care, like teeth extraction. Dental care is so important for your overall health.

Dental care is also a problem in this community. There is a one to two day dental program at the
Interstate Center that provides dental services.

There is only one dentist in Bloomington-Normal for children that will accept the Medicaid card.
This dentist only does cleanings and fillings. For other treatments we have to travel to Chicago or
sometimes to Peoria.

Access to dental services was also a theme among 2014 Community Assessment
survey respondents. Several respondents answered the question, What are you most
concerned about in McLean County? by discussing dental services:

lack of mental health services, dental services & transportation for those at or below poverty
level with no insurance or on Medicaid.

mental health services for low income, roads need improvements, dental services needed for low
income

Mental health & dental assistance for these in need

At the focus group on homelessness, one participant shared their perspective on having
limited access to dental care:

Dental care. I cant go to the dentist unless I need my tooth pulled. Well, why cant I go to the
dentist to keep from needing to have my tooth pulled?

Childrens oral health

Tooth decay is the number one chronic disease among children. It affects healthy eating
and sleeping habits, and is a primary cause of school absence. In addition, dental health issues
can lead to more serious health problems such as pneumonia when left untreated. Nationally,
dental caries (cavities) are experienced by 40 percent of children ages 2 to 11 years in the
United States.
172
This figure is close to local indicators: In McLean County, 42.5% of third
6. Findings


119
graders have cavity experience and 20.9% have untreated cavities.
173

Oral diseases impact low-income and racial/ethnic minorities more heavily. This may be
partially explained by the finding that these groups experience poorer access to dental care than
non-minority children in higher income families. These disparities have been found to continue
through adolescence and young adulthood, affecting quality of life more generally. As income
disparities and the number of poor, minority children increase nationally; this disparity may
become more severe.
174

National racial and income disparities in oral health are discussed in the 2012
Community Health Plan (CHP): A 2008 federal survey of parents revealed that 53% of Latino
children, 39% of black children, and 23% of white children have poor oral health. Needs are
particularly high among poor children: 20.7% of poor white children, 47.2% of poor Mexican-
American children, and 43.6% of poor non-Hispanic black children have untreated cavities.
Among preschool children who are poor, nearly 30% have untreated cavities compared to only
6% among children from families whose income was 300% above the federal poverty level.
175

The CHP notes that approximately 13,072 children in McLean County are enrolled in All
Kids/Medicaid; the primary insurer for children in low-income families. According to the Health
Department, the low reimbursement rate for All Kids/Medicaid discourages private, local dentists
from participating. The McLean County Health Department (MCHD) Dental Clinic is the only
dental clinic in the county routinely accepting those with Medicaid coverage.
176

In 2013, 5,502 children were examined and treated by dentists through the Health
Departments dental clinic, and 3,726 were served by hygienists. Services for children include
cleanings, exams, fillings, fluoride treatments, and preventive education. Services for children
are offered Monday through Thursday.

116
County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. (2014). County Snapshot: McLean County, IL. Retrieved March 27, 2014,
from http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/factors/overall/snapshot
117
from http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/factors/overall/snapshot
118
Illinois Department of Public Health. (2009). Illinois Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Springfield, IL:
Author. Retrieved from
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nty=4&form=county&yr=&area=&selTopic=
118
Michel, E., & Weinzimmer, Dr. L. (2013). Community Health-Needs Assessment 2013. Bloomington, IL: St. Joseph
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119
McLean County Health Department. (2012). The McLean County Community Health Plan (2012-2017).
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/600
120
121
122
PATH. (n.d.). Health Screening/Diagnostic Services>General Medical Care. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from
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ervices;33;General%20Medical%20Care~
123
Sweich, Paul. (2013, December 20). Continuing needs: McLean County clinic wont close anytime soon.
Pantagraph. Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/continuing-needs-mclean-county-
clinic-won-t-close-anytime-soon/article_8b5bfba0-68e3-11e3-a4ec-0019bb2963f4.html
124
Community Health Care Clinic. (2013). About the Clinic. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from
http://chcchealth.org/index.php?page=mission-vision#
125
McLean County Health Department. (n.d.). Dental Clinic. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://il-
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6. Findings


120

126
McLean County Health Department. (n.d.). Immunizations. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://il-
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127
McLean County Health Department. (n.d.). Immunizations. Retrieved May 21, 2014 from
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128
PATH. (n.d.). Community Resources: Browse Service Category. Retrieved January 28, 2014 from
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129
http://app.idph.state.il.us/brfss/countydata.asp?selTopicCounty=hlthuse&areaCounty=McLean_64&show=freq&yrCou
130
YWCA McLean County. (2014). Medivan. Retrieved April 8, 2014, from
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131
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/600 page 85
132
http://www.osfsaintfrancis.org/osflib/about/CHNA/bloomingtonCHNA-full.pdf page 5
133
134
135
U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Glossary: Essential Health Benefits. Retrieved April 4,
2014, from https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/essential-health-benefits/
136
Swiech, P. (2014, February 11). Health department kiosks new avenue to health insurance. Pantagraph. Retrieved
from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/health-departmant-kiosks-new-avenue-to-health-
insurance/article_9c9d570f-3c0c-58ea-9859-f4b2f1e6fd2d.html
137
Sweich, P. (2013, December 20). Continuing needs: McLean County clinic wont close anytime soon. Pantagraph.
Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/continuing-needs-mclean-county-clinic-won-t-
close-anytime-soon/article_8b5bfba0-68e3-11e3-a4ec-0019bb2963f4.html
138
http://app.idph.state.il.us/brfss/countydata.asp?selTopicCounty=hlthstat&areaCounty=McLean_64&show=freq&yrCou
139
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, January 9). Disability and Obesity. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/obesity.html
140
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2011, September 13). About BMI for Children and Teens. Retrieved
from http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/childrens_bmi/about_childrens_bmi.html
141
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/600 - page 51
142
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012, October 19). Illinoiss Response to Obesity. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/stateprograms/fundedstates/illinois.html
143
Advocate BroMenn Medical Center. (2013). Community Health Needs Assessment 2011 2013. Retrieved
January 28, 2014, from http://www.advocatehealth.com/documents/CHNA/BroMennCHNA12-30-13.pdf - page 3
144
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, December 6). Body Mass Index. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/index.html
145
146
from http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/illinois/2014/rankings/mclean/county/outcomes/overall/snapshot
147
Ogden C.L., Lamb, M.M., Carroll, M.D., and Flegal, K.M. (2010, December). Obesity and socioeconomic status in
adults: United States 1988-1994 and 2005-2008. NCHS data brief no 50. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health
Statistics. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db50.pdf
148
149
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, August 16). Adult Obesity Facts. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html
6. Findings


121

150
Daniels, S. R. (2006). The consequences of childhood overweight and obesity. The future of children, 16(1), 47-
67.
151
.213 x 172,281 = 36,696; U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). American FactFinder Community Facts: McLean County,
IL. Retrieved January 17, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/community_facts.xhtml
152
Author. Retrieved from http://app.idph.state.il.us/brfss/countydata.asp?selTopicCounty=hlthstat&areaCounty=
McLean_64&show=freq&yrCounty=4&form=county&yr=&area=&selTopic=
153
154
155
Corrigan, Patrick. Watson, Amy. (2001, February). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental
illness. World Psychiatry. Vol. 1. Issue 1. pp 16-20. Retrieved from
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156
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/600 page 112.
157
McLean County Center for Human Services. (n.d.). Welcome to MCCHS. Retrieved from
http://mcchs.org/wordpress/
158
Brady-Lunny, E. (2013, December 15). Proper care elusive for those with mental illness, criminal behavior.
Pantagraph. Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/proper-care-elusive-for-those-with-
mental-illness-criminal-behavior/article_ae172bf4-6485-11e3-939c-0019bb2963f4.html
159
Brady-Lunny, E. (2014, March 26). Panel seeks answers to crisis team staffing, response time. Pantagraph.
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time/article_220d46e1-f068-5e9b-b595-3afab440abb9.html
160
PATH. (n.d.). Psychiatric Support Services > General Psychiatry: Professional Associates of Illinois. Retrieved
from
http://www.referweb.net/Path/MatchList.aspx?c;Bloomington;13911;;N;0;14431;Mental%20Health%20&%20Substanc
e%20Abuse%20Services;Psychiatric%20Support%20Services;60;General%20Psychiatry
161
PATH. (n.d.). Mental Health Facilities > Childrens/Adolescent Residential Treatment Facilities: The Baby Fold.
Retrieved from http://www.referweb.net/Path/MatchList.aspx?c;Bloomington;13911;;N;0;13228;Mental%20Health%
20&%20Substance%20Abuse%20Services;Mental%20Health%20Facilities;58;Children%27s/Adolescent%20Reside
ntial%20Treatment%20Facilities
162
163
Brady-Lunny, E. (2013, December 15). Proper care elusive for those with mental illness, criminal behavior.
Pantagraph. Retrieved from http://www.pantagraph.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/proper-care-elusive-for-those-with-
mental-illness-criminal-behavior/article_ae172bf4-6485-11e3-939c-0019bb2963f4.html
164
165
http://app.idph.state.il.us/brfss/countydata.asp?selTopicCounty=alcohol&areaCounty=McLean_64&show=freq&yrCou
166
167
http://app.idph.state.il.us/brfss/countydata.asp?selTopicCounty=oralhlth&areaCounty=McLean_64&show=freq&yrCou
168
Medical Center. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://www.osfsaintfrancis.org/osflib/about/CHNA/
bloomingtonCHNA-full.pdf pages 171-173
169
170
Aravamudhan, K., Grau, B., Nasseh, K., & Vujicic, M. (2013, October). Dental Care Use Among Children Varies
Widely across States and between Medicaid and Commercial Plans within a State. American Dental Association.
6. Findings


122

Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://www.ada.org/sections/professionalResources/pdfs/hprc-research-brief-
dental-care-use-among-children.pdf
171
McLean County Health Department. (n.d.). Dental Clinic. Retrieved from
http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/index.aspx?nid=95
172
Edelstein, B. L., & Chinn, C. H. (2009). Update on disparities in oral health and access to dental care for America's
children. Academic pediatrics, 9(6), 415-419. Retrieved December 17, 2013, from
http://mmclibrary.com/uploads/Update_on_Disparities_in_Oral_Health_and_Access_to_Dental_Care_for_Americas_
Children.pdf
173
174
Edelstein, B. L., & Chinn, C. H. (2009). Update on disparities in oral health and access to dental care for America's
children. Academic pediatrics, 9(6), 415-419. Retrieved December 17, 2013 from
http://mmclibrary.com/uploads/Update_on_Disparities_in_Oral_Health_and_Access_to_Dental_Care_for_Americas_
Children.pdf
175
176
6. Findings
6.6 CHILD & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION


123
CHILD & YOUTH
DEVELOPMENT &
EDUCATION
This section considers data on child abuse, youth
programming and community involvement, youth risk
behaviors, and education in McLean County. The
county had fewer substantiated cases of child abuse
and neglect than Peoria, Sangamon, and Champaign
Counties in 2011 (see Figure 6.6.1). Among 2014
Community Assessment survey respondents who
used services, academic help for youth at community agencies and parks and recreation
programs received the highest satisfaction ratings (see Figure 6.6.2). A majority of respondents
feel there is a need for more career development and training programs for youth. As discussed
in Income & Poverty, education increases ones earning potential. Many 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents and key informants commented on McLean Countys strong
education system. A majority of students in all districts met or exceeded standards on the
Prairie State Achievement Exam in 2013 (see Figure 6.6.8). However, McLean Countys
educational system must continue to respond and adjust to declines in the 4-year graduation
rate in all school districts in McLean County in the last few years (see Figure 6.6.10), the
increasing percentage of students coming from low-income households in six out of the eight
school districts in McLean County, and declines in funding for education.

Children

In 2012, approximately 21,655 McLean County residents were between zero and nine
years of age, representing 12.6 percent of the population.
177
This age group is projected to
number 24,107 and represent 12.1 percent of the total McLean County population by 2030.
178

The health and human service system for children and youth includes private, public, and
community organizations dedicated to promoting child and youth well-being.

Child abuse

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services collects statistics on child abuse
in Illinois. A child is defined as any person under 18 years of age.
179
In Illinois in fiscal year
(FY) 2012, there were 106,236 children reported as abused or neglected to the Illinois
Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS).
180
Of these reports, 28,787 children (27.1%)
were indicated for abuse and neglect, meaning an investigation of suspected child
abuse/neglect . . . revealed credible evidence that the abuse/neglect occurred.
181
Credible
evidence means that the available facts when viewed in light of surrounding circumstances
would cause a reasonable person to believe that a child was abused or neglected.
182

In McLean County, 1,707 children were reported as abused or neglected to DCFS in FY
2012. Of these reports, 542 children (31.8%) became the subject of indicated investigations of
abuse/neglect.
183
In FY 2011, 538 children were the subject of indicated investigation.
184
Kids
Count Data Center provides statistics on the number of substantiated cases of child abuse and
neglect by geographic location. According to this source, the number of substantiated cases of
child abuse and neglect in McLean County declined from 506 in 2001 to 484 in 2011. During
that time period, the most substantiated cases were in 2007, at 703.
185
Figure 6.6.1 shows
substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect for McLean, Peoria, Sangamon, and Champaign
Counties.

6. Findings


124
Figure 6.6.1 Substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect in
Central Illinois Counties, 2001-2011

Source: Kids Count Data Center. (2014). Substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect
(in 1,000s), 1990-2012, McLean County, IL. Retrieved April 15, 2014, from
http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/Line/4100-substantiated-cases-of-child-abuse-and-
neglect-in-1000s-1990
2012?loc=15&loct=5#5/2199,2253,2261,2273/false/867,133,38,35,18,17,16,15,14,13,12/a
sc/any/8546

DCFS records the source of indicated reports and types of child abuse and neglect in
Illinois. In FY 2012, law enforcement (38.3%) made the most indicated reports followed by
medical sources (19.4%), social service agencies (11.9%), and schools (11.8%). These entities
play a vital role in identifying cases of abuse and neglect. Among indicated investigations, the
most common type of harm toward children in FY 2012 was blatant disregard (34.9%) followed
by lack of supervision (20.4%), risk of harm (18.8%), sexual abuse (8.2%), physical abuse (8%),
environmental neglect (6.7%), lack of health care (2%), emotional abuse (.9%), and death
(.1%).
186

Youth and programs

In 2012, there were 24,599 individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 in McLean
County, accounting for 14.3 percent of the total population.
187
This age group is projected to
number 27,550 individuals and represent 13.8 percent of McLean Countys total populations of
199,102 by 2030.
188
Among 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents, the most
utilized youth services were Parks and Recreation programs (12.5%)
189
and youth programs
based on common interest (7.7%).
190
For those who used youth services, academic help for
children or youth at a community agency received the highest satisfaction rating with a mean
(average) score of 4.07 on a scale of one to five. Parks and recreation programs for children or
youth were rated second highest with a mean of 4.04 (see Figure 6.6.2).

0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
McLean
Peoria
Sangamon
Champaign
6. Findings


125
Figure 6.6.2 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents mean
satisfaction with youth services

While only 32.6 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents feel there
is a need for additional sports, fitness, or recreational programs for McLean County youth, over
50 percent of respondents feel there is a need for additional career development and training
services for youth in McLean County (see Figure 6.6.3). This finding is consistent with the 2014
Community Assessment neighborhood focus groups. In both the West Bloomington and
Lexington focus groups, participants expressed a desire for more GED programs and job
opportunities. When asked what they would like to see addressed in their neighborhood in the
next five years, West Bloomington participants said more job opportunities for youth, job
training, GED programs, youth gardening programs, and mentoring programs, among other
community issues. In Lexington, participants were primarily concerned about the lack of job
opportunities for young people. Participants in Normal, West Bloomington, East Bloomington,
and Lexington focus groups expressed a desire for more extracurricular options for youth in
their neighborhood. Participants in the West Bloomington focus group desired more free or low-
cost activities for youth:

There needs to be free stuff for kids to do. Some things (e.g. skating) cost money that kids dont
have, but basketball is free.

Teenagers say the biggest problem is theres nothing to do in West Bloomington.

Our whole community has nothing for youth. Theres nothing . . .our church had four basketball
hoops and then the neighbors would complain about the kids. So, I want to put them back up but
the City wants to keep them down.

4.07
3.98
4.04
3.5
1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0
Academic help for children or youth
at a community agency (n=15)
Youth program based on common
interest (e.g., Boy Scouts) (n=123)
Parks and recreations programs for
children or youth (n=200)
Youth leadership development
programs at a community agency
(n=16)
1=Completely Unsatisfied 3=Neutral 5=Completely Satisfied
6. Findings


126

Figure 6.6.3 Perceived need for additional youth services among
2014 Community Assessment survey respondents

Some 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents noted a lack of programming
for youth, tying the issue to youth crime, when asked What are you most concerned about in
McLean County?

Lack of options for youth. TAX RATE

crime & youth programs to keep youth away from crime & violence. Mental health potentially
relating to recent string of violent incidents & deaths.

Crime increase, Streets in need of repair, Activities for at-risk youth.

Lack of positive place for youth to go that is affordable. Lack of things to do in the evenings when
the colder months approach. Lack of/slow medial services for medical card recipients.

Infrastructure improvement and increased support for youth leadership preparation

Employment and community participation

In McLean County, approximately 2,606 males, and 3,101 females ages 16 to 19 are in
the labor force.
191
In addition to their labor force contribution, youth also participate in the
community through their extracurricular activities, places of worship, and volunteering as shown
in Figure 6.6.4.

48.7%
39.4%
32.6%
51.1%
13.0%
16.0%
31.7%
12.6%
38.4%
44.6%
35.7%
36.3%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Additional services or programs
for academic help outside of
school
for leadership development
for sports, fitness and
recreation programs
for career development and
training
Don't Know
No
Yes
6. Findings


127

Figure 6.6.4 Percentage of youth participating in activities by grade in
McLean County, 2012

Source: Illinois Department of Human Services. (2012). Illinois Youth Survey, 2012 county
report, county name: McLean. University of Illinois: Center for Prevention Research and
Development. Retrieved from http://iys.cprd.illinois.edu/docs/2012-county-reports/mclean-
county.pdf?sfvrsn=0

Young people gain knowledge and build social connections through participation in
activities and organizations, in addition to receiving other benefits. At the 2014 Community
Assessment focus group on youth, a few participants noted the positive aspects of their
childrens involvement:

Just to see them excited they get to come to Bible study and build relationships with new people
and learn about the Bible. Its very good for them because they look forward to going . . . It gives
them an opportunity to socialize with other kids, some of whom arent from their neighborhood.

Children usually get out of school at 3:40and they spend a good chunk of time at Boys and
Girls Club and its great because that only leaves enough time to get home, have me look over
her homework and get ready for bed.

Risk factors identified by national and State youth surveys

The data discussed below is from the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) and the
2012 McLean County summary of the Illinois Youth Survey. Conducted by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the YRBS is a biennial survey of risk behaviors among
9
th
-12
th
graders in the U.S. The survey monitors behaviors that threaten the health of young
people including violence, substance abuse, sexual behaviors, sedentary lifestyle, and weight
issues. The Illinois Youth Survey, an initiative of the Illinois Department of Human Services, is
administered in participating middle and high schools across the state. Slightly less than half of
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
school sports team
other sports
service clubs
other activity clubs
service or volunteer projects
church youth group or faither-
based youth group
youth drug prevention leadership
group
12th
10th
8th
6th
6. Findings


128
6
th
, 8
th
, 10
th
, and 12
th
grade public school students participated in the 2012 survey in McLean
County.
192

Alcohol and substance use

In McLean County, the Illinois Youth Survey shows that 12
th
graders consistently
reported higher rates of drug and alcohol use than 6
th
, 8
th
, and 10
th
graders. Age 16.3 is the
average at which students report they begin drinking regularly. One in four 12
th
graders reported
they began drinking regularly at least once or twice a monthat age 16 or 17. By grade level,
46 percent of McLean County 12
th
graders reported using alcohol in the past 30 days compared
to 26 percent of 10
th
graders, 12 percent of 8
th
graders, and 6 percent of 6
th
graders. 12
th

graders also reported higher rates of binge drinking. In McLean County, 29 percent of 12
th

graders reported binge drinking at least once in the past two weeks, compared to 13 percent of
10
th
th
th
graders.
193
Among 9
th
to 12
th
graders
nationally, 21.9% of students had had five or more drinks of alcohol in a row (e.g., within a
couple of hours) on at least 1 day during the 30 days before the survey (e.g., binge drinking).
194

Among McLean County 12
th
graders who consumed alcohol, the most common sources for it
were friends (79%) or parties (73%). Of the 12
th
graders surveyed, 44 percent said it would be
very easy to get beer, wine or hard liquor, and 40 percent said it would be very easy to get
marijuana.
In McLean County, 24 percent of 12
th
th
graders, 5 percent of
8
th
th
graders reported having used marijuana in the past 30 days;
and 17 percent of 12
th
graders and 13 percent of 10
th
graders reported having been high or
drunk at school in the past year.
195
Among 9
th
to 12
th
graders nationally, 23.1 percent had used
marijuana one or more times during the 30 days before the survey (e.g., current marijuana
use). Additionally, 20.7% of students had taken prescription drugs (e.g., Oxycontin, Percocet,
codeine, Adderall, Ritalin, or Xanax) without a doctors prescription one or more times during
their life.
196

Preventing youth alcohol and substance use requires parental education,
communication, supervision, and intervention. For both 12
th
and 10
th
graders, 54 percent said
their parent or guardian has talked to them about not using alcohol in the past year. Additionally,
69 percent of 10
th
th
graders say their parent or guardian has talked
to them about not drinking and driving or riding with a drunk driver. When asked, Would your
parents/guardians know if you did not come home on time? 73 percent of 10
th
graders and 64
percent of 12
th
graders said Most of the time, or Always. Although a majority perceives their
parents supervision, 59 percent of 12
th
th
graders said their parents
would never catch them if they went to a party where alcohol was served. Additionally, 46
percent of 12
th
th
graders said they would never be caught by their
parents if they drank and drove.
197

Nationally, the results of the 2011 YRBS indicated that during the 30 days before the
survey, 24.1% of students had ridden one or more times in a car or other vehicle driven by
someone who had been drinking alcohol.
198
In comparison, 37 percent of McLean County 12
th

th
graders, said they had ridden in a car driven by someone . . .
who was high or had been using alcohol or drugs.
199
Over one in five McLean County 12
th

graders (23%) reported drinking and driving at least once in the past year, and driving while
under the influence of marijuana or another illicit drug, compared to 7 and 10 percent of 10
th

graders respectively.

6. Findings


129
Violence, bullying, and crime

Nationally, other 2011 YRBS findings testify to the difficulties of teenage life and the
potential for these difficulties to manifest themselves in violent ways. For example, 32.8% of
students had been in a physical fight one or more times during the 12 months before the
survey. The survey also found that 16.6% of students had carried a weapon (e.g., a gun, knife,
or club) on at least one day during the 30 days before the survey. Also, 2011 YRBS data show
that suicide and bullying continue to be persistent problems for young adults finding that 20.1%
of students had been bullied on school property during the 12 months before the survey and
15.8% of students had seriously considered attempting suicide during the 12 months before the
survey.
200

In McLean County, 2012 bullying reports are higher among 6
th
and 8
th
graders than 10
th

and 12
th
graders: 59 percent of 6
th
graders report having been bullied compared to 53 percent of
8
th
th
th
graders. Name-calling also
constitutes bullying: 49 percent of 6
th
th
graders report having been
bullied by being called names in the past 12 months, compared to 33 percent of 10
th
graders
and 22 percent of 12
th
graders.
201

In McLean County, five percent of 8
th
, 10
th
, and 12
th
graders reported belonging to a
street gang.
202
2014 Community Assessment survey respondents and key informants raised
concerns about gang activity and youth crime. Some expressed fear. In response to the
question What are you most concerned about in McLean County, some survey respondents
noted crime and youth:

Gang/youth violence. It is not safe to walk the streets.

crime & youth programs to keep youth away from crime & violence.

Youth crime and delinquency, gangs

The increase in violent crime due to youth.

The rise in crime rates among our youth.

gangs, drugs increasing, youth crime

One key informant said:

This notion or talk about juvenile crime and gang-related type stuff, I dont think its extremely
hardcore . . . It seems to be more mob action gang activity; just kids getting together and doing
things. To address that, I think there has to be niche-specific programming . . . its not a one-size-
fits-all situation. The programs need to be targeted to what those youth really enjoy.

A number of social service agencies work with youth in McLean County on a variety of
issues including transportation, housing, violence, mental illness, substance abuse, and
delinquency. The Juvenile Justice Council comprises 28 representatives from school districts,
social service agencies, businesses, the community, and the juvenile justice system that meet
monthly to encourage the initiation and or the support of ongoing interagency cooperation and
programs to address juvenile delinquency and juvenile crime.
203

6. Findings


130
Physical activity & weight issues

The 2011 YRBS found that 28.7% of students had been physically active doing any kind
of physical activity that increased their heart rate and made them breathe hard some of the time
for a total of at least 60 minutes per day on each of the seven days before the survey.
However, 32.4% of students watched television 3 or more hours per day on an average school
day. In addition, more than one in four 9
th
to 12
th
grade students were found to be overweight or
obese in the U.S. in 2011.
204

In McLean County, the Illinois Youth Survey found that 23 percent of 6
th
, 8
th
, 10
th
, and
12
th
graders were overweight or obese according to CDC Body Mass Index guidelines.
205
10
th

and 12
th
graders had slightly higher rates of obesity (9%) than 6
th
(8%) and 8
th
graders (7%).
Fifteen percent of 6
th
graders were overweight, as were 16 percent of 8
th
graders, and 14
percent of both 10
th
and 12
th
graders.
206
Nationally, the 2011 YRBSS found that 13 percent of 9
th

through 12
th
graders were obese, and 15 percent were overweight. According to the CDC,
obese youth are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, more likely to have prediabetes, and
are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological
problems such as stigmatization and poor self esteem. Additionally, obese children are likely
to be obese as adults and are therefore more at risk for adult health problems such as heart
disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis.
207

Community agencies, such as the YMCA and the McLean County Wellness Coalition,
are implementing programming to combat youth obesity.

Parental involvement and mentoring

Some key informants and focus group participants perceived a lack of parental-
involvement in the lives of some children in the community. One focus group participant and a
key informant said:

These kids in the neighborhood . . . would ask me to come to their games, and Im like, wheres
your mom? and they say, well, shes at home, shes not going to come. But I go to the event
and you can see the expression on their face, theyre happy Im there cheering them on.

Sometimes they (parents) just need to get off their lazy asses and drive their kid to the program,
and thats often why grandma and grandpa step in to raise kids. Parents can sometimes be a
barrier.

This sentiment was echoed by some 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents
answering the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean County:

There appears to be much poverty in the schools and disinterested parents.

Lack of proper parenting and lack of parental emphasis on education. Plus lack of responsibility
from welfareempowered for free handout without giving anything back.

Lack of parental supervision of youth and accountability for bad behavior.

In the 2014 Community Assessment focus group on youth, participants said mentors
could be helpful for youth when they might not feel like talking to their parents about whats
going on in their lives. However, one key informant said there are difficulties in connecting youth
with mentors:
6. Findings


131

In the juvenile area I see that 5 or 6 agencies are providing mentor services to the same
population but not to a needier, more at-risk population. Im told thats partly because of a lack of
transportation and liability on the part of the mentorthey cant put the mentor in the car because
of the liability issues. There arent options available for transportation for kids to get to mentors.

Education

As discussed in the Income and Poverty section, low educational attainment increases
the likelihood one will be in poverty. A quality education, therefore, can lead to a better life.
McLean County is home to several higher educational institutions and private elementary and
secondary schools including Calvary Christian Academy, Central Catholic High School,
Cornerstone Christian Academy, Epiphany Elementary School, Hammit School-The Baby Fold,
Hammitt Junior/Senior High School, High Road School of Bloomington, Holy Trinity Grade
School, Holy Trinity Junior High School, Mulberry School, Scott Center-The Childrens
Foundation, St. Marys Elementary School, and Trinity Lutheran School.
208
This section,
however, depicts the diversity and academic performance of McLean Countys public
elementary and high school education system.
McLean County public schools are separated into eight districts with a total of 24,601
students enrolled: Bloomington District 87; Heyworth District 4; LeRoy District 2; Lexington
District 7; McLean County District 5 (also commonly known as Unit 5); Olympia District 16;
Ridgeview District 19; and Tri-Valley District 3. Figure 6.6.5 shows these districts and their
student enrollment. Unit 5 is by far the largest district, comprising 16 elementary, 4 junior high,
and 2 high schools. According to the Illinois Report Card, there were 13,538 students enrolled in
Unit 5 in 2013. The next largest school district was District 87 with 5,248 students. Olympia and
Tri-Valley had 1,926 and 1,000 students enrolled in 2013 respectively. The remaining six
districts accounted for 5,807 students; four of these had fewer than 1,000 students enrolled.
209

Figure 6.6.5 Number of students enrolled in McLean County public
schools by district, 2013

Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District Snapshot. Retrieved February 20, 2014, from
http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/Default.aspx

13,538
5,248
1,926
1,000 968
811
600 510
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
6. Findings


132
Racial and ethnic diversity

Both the McLean County population and its student population are growing more
diverse. McLean Countys urban school districts (Unit 5 and District 87) are more
racially/ethnically diverse than its rural districts (see Figure 6.6.6). Bloomington District 87 has
more racial/ethnic diversity than any other district with nearly half of the students being Black,
Hispanic, Asian, or Multi Racial/Ethnic. Unit 5 follows with about one-third of its student body
identifying these categories. In each of the remaining six rural districts, over 91 percent of
students are White.

Figure 6.6.6 Racial/ethnic composition of McLean County school districts, 2013

Unit 5
Tri-
Valley
Ridgeview Olympia Lexington LeRoy Heyworth
District
87
White 67.9% 96.2% 91.5% 94.3% 97.6% 94.3% 95.6% 52.4%
Black 11.9% 1.5% 2.5% 0.9% - 1.0% - 22.4%
Hispanic 6.6% 0.9% 4.5% 2.2% - 2.2% 1.8% 11.7%
Asian 7.6% 1.0% 0.5% 0.6% - 0.6% - 4.7%
Multi
Racial/Ethnicity
5.5% - - 1.8% 2.2% 1.5% 1.9% 8.5%
American Indian - - 0.7% - - - - -
Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/Student Characteristics/Racial/Ethnic Diversity. Retrieved January 16,
2014, from http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/Default.aspx

Students from low-income households

Students from low-income households or households in poverty face additional
challenges compared to students from middle- or high-income households. Coming from a
household in poverty, for example, increases the likelihood that a child will suffer from poor
health.
210
Concerns about health, or simply not feeling well, may make it more difficult to focus
in school, causing the child to fall behind his or her peers. Being unable to keep pace with other
students may in turn generate a feeling of hopelessness and apathy toward school work. As one
key informant put it, healthy kids have a better opportunity to learn more effectively. According
to the Illinois Report Card, students aged 3 to 17 are considered low-income if they come from a
family receiving public aid, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or
Targeted Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); are living in institutions for neglected or
delinquent children; are being supported in foster homes with public funds; or qualify for free or
reduced-price lunches.
211

Figure 6.6.7 shows the percentage of students from low-income households across
McLean County school districts and the average for the State of Illinois. Coinciding with the
increased poverty rates in McLean County and the State, the percentage of students from low-
income households has increased from 2009 to 2013 in six out of the eight county public school
districts and the states public school system overall. Ridgeview District 19, in Colfax,
6. Findings


133
experienced the highest increase of 16 percent. In 2013, 46 percent of Ridgeview students (out
of 600), were from low-income households. Five other McLean County school districts, including
LeRoy, Heyworth, District 87, Olympia, and Unit 5, experienced increases between six and nine
percent between 2009 and 2013. The percentage of students from low-income households in
District 87 (57% in 2013) has remained consistently higher than all other McLean County school
districts and the State of Illinois.
212

Figure 6.6.7 Percentage of students from low-income households by
McLean County school district, 2009-2013

Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/Student Characteristics/Low-Income Students.
Retrieved January 3, 2014, from http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/Default.aspx

Prairie State Achievement Exam (PSAE)

One measure of education system performance is the percentage of students in each
district who meet or exceed standards on the Prairie State Achievement Exam (PASE). This
exam is given to 11
th
grade students in Illinois public schools, and measures their performance
in relation to the Illinois Learning Standards. The two-day exam includes a college readiness
assessment, and testing on math, reading, and science. The Illinois Report Card (IRC) states
that districts with high scores on the PSAE are likely to have high academic standards;
however, standardized testing scores are only part of the academic picture, and should be
understood alongside other indicators of student performance.
213
Figure 6.6.8 shows PSAE
performance for McLean Countys eight school districts and Illinois. In 2013, slightly more than
half of Illinois 11
th
grade students met the standards on the PSAE. Except for District 87, over
55 percent of students met standards on the PSAE in all McLean County districts, and were
above the states average.
During the 2013-14 academic year, Illinois schools implemented the Common Core
learning standards into classroom curricula. Common Core is a collaborative effort between
more than 40 states to raise learning standards and improve college and career readiness.
214

The new testing standards for English and mathematics ensure that students have
comprehensive understanding of key concepts.
215

0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Unit 5
Tri-Valley
Ridgeview
Olympia
Lexington
LeRoy
Heyworth
District 87
Illinois
6. Findings


134
Figure 6.6.8 Percentage of students meeting or exceeding state
standards on the Prairie State Achievement Exam in McLean County
public school districts, 2013

Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/ Academic Progress/PSAE. Retrieved January
8, 2014, from http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/Default.aspx

Average instructional spending per student

McLean County school districts differ in the amount of money they spend on instruction.
Illinois Report Card collects data on the average instructional spending per student in Illinois
school districts. Instructional spending includes only the activities directly dealing with the
teaching of students or the interaction between teachers and students.
216
Except for Lexington
and Tri-Valley, all McLean County districts were below the States average in per student
spending in 2013 (see Figure 6.6.9). Lexington District 7 spent the most on instruction per
student at nearly $9,000. LeRoy District 2 spent the least at slightly above $5,000.
217

30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
55%
60%
65%
70%
75%
80%
2010 2011 2012 2013
Unit 5
Tri-Valley
Ridgeview
Olympia
Lexington
LeRoy
Heyworth
District 87
Illinois
6. Findings


135
Figure 6.6.9 Average instructional spending per student in McLean
County school districts and Illinois, 2013

Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/District Environment/Per Student Spending.
Retrieved from http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/default.aspx

Four-year graduation rates decline across districts

Figure 6.6.10 shows the percentage of McLean County students who graduated high
school within four years of entering the 9
th
grade. These data are adjusted for mobility among
districts. In Illinois overall, the four-year graduation rate declined four percent between 2009 and
2013 to 83 percent. The four-year graduation rate fell across all McLean County districts
between 2009 and 2013. The sharpest drop was for Lexington, where the rate fell 21 percent.
The smallest decline was in Unit 5, where the four-year graduation rate fell only three percent.
Ridgeview and District 87 experienced declines from 2010 to 2011 Figure 6.6.10 shows that 100
percent of the students who graduated from Tri-Valley, Ridgeview, and Heyworth school
districts in 2009 had entered 9
th
grade no more than 4 years prior. In 2013, Tri-Valleys four-year
graduation rate fell to 87 percent, Ridgeviews fell to 92 percent, and Heyworths fell to 90
percent.
218
The average 4-Year graduation rate across McLean County districts was 85 percent
in 2013, down from 96 percent in 2009.
The decline from 2010 to 2011 is likely associated with the change in the definition of the
graduation rate that went into effect during the 2010-2011 school year. Federal regulations
required states and school districts to begin using a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate
calculated by dividing the number of students who graduate in four years or less with a regular
high school diploma by the number of students who form the adjusted cohort for that graduating
class.
219
The purpose of the definition is to be able to compare high school graduation rates
across states, and learn more about students who are not graduating with a regular diploma or
are graduating in more than four years. The four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate only
includes students graduating in four years or less with a regular high school diploma in the
original cohort that is, the cohort with which he or she started 9
th
grade.
220
In 2012, the Illinois
State Board of Education began calculating a 5-year graduation, which was slightly higher than
the four-year rate in 2012 and 2013.

$0
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
$5,000
$6,000
$7,000
$8,000
$9,000
$10,000
6. Findings


136
Figure 6.6.10 Percent of students graduating within four years by McLean
County school district, 2009-2013

Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). Graduation Rate. Retrieved April 15, 201,4 from
http://illinoisreportcard.com/District.aspx?source=Trends&source2=GraduationRate&Districtid=17064
087025

The graduation rate for low-income students is below the rate for students overall in
McLean County and the State of Illinois. McLean Countys graduation rate for low-income
students for the 2012-2013 academic year was at 65.6 percent, below the Illinois average
(72.8%).
221
This is especially concerning given that for the population 25 years and older in
McLean County, 42.4 percent of people without a high school diploma live in poverty (see
Figure 6.2.13 in Income & Poverty). This figure is higher than the percentages of those aged 25
or older living in poverty without a high school diploma in Illinois (26.3%) and the U.S. overall
(28%).

Education system strengths and opportunities

When asked about the strengths in McLean Countys primary and secondary education
system, one key informant discussed the quality and high education level of teachers and
administrators, the high expectations of parents sending their children to school, and the
resources available to schools. Many 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents echoed
the informants positive view of the school system. In response to the question, What do you
like most about McLean County? 1 in 10 respondents (160 of the 1540 who answered the
question) talked about education opportunities, with many referring specifically to K-12 schools:

friendly people, consitution trail, unit 5 schools

Good schools, crime rate low, friendly people, seemingly efficient police

Nice area to raise a family. Great schools

I like the public schools. They are wonderful.

70
75
80
85
90
95
100
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Unit 5
Tri-Valley
Ridgeview
Olympia
Lexington
LeRoy
Heyworth
District 87
McLean County Average
Illinois
6. Findings


137
Low crime rate. Good public schools

good schools. both public, private and at all levels.

Schools in District 87, Cancer center

A small percentage of survey respondents (2.17% or 33 of the 1520 respondents who
answered the question) mentioned schools/education when asked, What are you most
concerned about in McLean County? However, maintaining the countys educational quality is
becoming more of a challenge as we have less resources coming from the state, the key
informant warned. Tied to funding declines, this participant expressed concerns about keeping
high-caliber teachers in area schools and identified threats to maintaining teacher quality:

Specifically . . . quality teachers have chosen to retire earlier than usual given pension reform
uncertainty. Accountability reforms, while well-intentioned, cannot be implemented effectively
under our current model and this is causing greater mental health stresses among our teaching
population . . . A growing concern for our education system is the potential for the lack of quality
teachers to be fed into the pipeline to replace high quality staff as they retire. The university has
seen a decline in enrollment for teacher training programs. Concern over potential declining EAV
(equalized assessed valuation) presents a resource threat to our districts, in terms of having
resources to provide appropriate educational levels.

The key informant also described McLean County as an area with many extra learning
opportunities outside schools, and noted the potential for schools to partner with area
businesses to help students learn about what it takes to succeed in the workplace:

We have a lot of community agencies that supplement the curriculum. The Childrens Discovery
Museum, Challenger Learning Center, and the McLean County History Museum are all examples
of local resources that our districts can utilize . . . What resources can they (businesses) bring to
the table to assist our schools in better preparing those students? How can we better engage
them in that type of partnership? We have some opportunities with McLean County Compactan
education, business, government partnership to better align education and business interests.

Finally, the informant said that truancy appears to be growing, and noted the unique
challenges in serving at-risk students:

With alternative and SAME program students moderate to high at risk students, the challenges
are maintaining attendance in schools and getting those students to see the big picture of why
graduating is important and the opportunities that will present to them in the future. One of the
concerns with that is truancy. My perception is that truancy is growing. That is a concern going
forward. More or less a general rule of our students is they probably trend to the lower economic
part of the spectrum. Being under-resourced at home is a concern with our group. Our school
itself is pretty well resourced. Just keeping them engaged at school is something.

Another key informant said that with Bloomington-Normals large resource-base, there is
potential for greater collaboration among youth service providers:

I think that helping raise and develop capacity to serve these youth amongst all these
organizations could be achieved . . . Rather than creating niche programs, I think it would be
good to be more global and interactive in our thought process. We [youth service providers] are
interactive and get along fantastically, but in Bloomington-Normal we should not have a [youth
service provider] teetering on sustainability. Were flush with resources. Lets pull them together
6. Findings


138
and all hook up to the same wagon . . . And when looking for state dollars, if were all one, we
might have a better case. For-profits figured this out a long time ago; that if you pool together and
operate with the same branding, but are owned by a larger organization, you can operate more
efficiently. That could be explored a little more in-depth.

The informant explained that the organization they are involved with has received a
significant level of support from the community that has allowed them to deliver programs much
more effectively.

177
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates, 2012 American Community Survey 1-
Year Estimates: McLean County. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/
178
State of Illinois Data Portal. (n.d.). DCEO County Population Projections. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved
January 21, 2014, from https://data.illinois.gov/Economics/DCEO-County-Population-Projections/h3bx-hbbh
179
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. (2014). Definitions. Retrieved February 11, 2014, from
http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/definitions/index.html
180
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. (2013, May). Child Abuse and Neglect Statistics, Fiscal Year
2012. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/docs/DCFS_Annual_Statistical_Report_FY2012.pdf
181
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. (n.d.). Glossary of Terms. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/library/com_communications_glos.shtml
182
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. (2012, September). What You Need to Know about a Child
Abuse or Neglect Investigation. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/docs/whatcani.pdf
183
184
2011. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from http://www.state.il.us/DCFS/docs/CANTS2011.pdf
185
Kids Count Data Center. (2014). Substantiated cases of child abuse and neglect (in 1,000s), 1990-2012, McLean
County, IL. Retrieved February 11, 2014, from http://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/Line/4100-substantiated-cases-of-
child-abuse-and-neglect-in-1000s-1990-
2012?loc=15&loct=5#5/2199,2253,2261,2273/false/867,133,38,35,18,17,16,15,14,13,12/asc/any/8546
186
187
Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
ble
188
State of Illinois Data Portal. (n.d.). DCEO County Population Projections. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from
189
200 of 1,606 Community Assessment 2014 respondents indicated they had used Parks and Recreation programs
for youth in the last 12 months
190
123 of 1,606 Community Assessment 2014 respondents indicated they had used a Youth program based on
common interest in the last 12 months
191
U.S. Census Bureau. (2010-2012). SEX BY AGE BY EMPLOYMENT STATUS FOR THE POPULATION 16
YEARS AND OVER, Universe: Population 16 years and over, 2010-2012 American Community Survey 3-Year
Estimates: McLean County, Illinois. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_3YR_B23001&prodType
=table
192
Illinois Department of Human Services. (2012). Illinois Youth Survey, 2012 county report, county name: McLean.
University of Illinois: Center for Prevention Research and Development. Retrieved from
http://iys.cprd.illinois.edu/docs/2012-county-reports/mclean-county.pdf?sfvrsn=0
193
6. Findings


139

194
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System: 2011 National
Overview. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/yrbs/pdf/us_overview_yrbs.pdf
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
McLean County, Illinois. (n.d.). Juvenile Justice Council. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/index.aspx?NID=589
204
205
206
207
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014). Adolescent and School Health: Health Effects of Childhood
Obesity. Retrieved April 15, 2014, from http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/obesity/facts.htm
208
Regional Office of Education #17. (n.d.). McLean County Private Schools. Retrieved January 9, 2014, from
http://www.roe17.org/about-us/schools/mclean-county-private-schools
209
Source: Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District Snapshot. Retrieved February 20, 2014, from
210
Currie, J. (2005). Health disparities and gaps in school readiness. The Future of Children, 15 (1), 1-22. doi .
Retrieved from http://www.princeton.edu/~jcurrie/publications/Health_disparities_and_gaps.pdf
211
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/Student Characteristics/Low-Income Students. Retrieved January 3, 2014, from
212
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/Student Characteristics/Low-Income Students. Retrieved January 3, 2014, from
213
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/ Academic Progress/PSAE. Retrieved January 3, 2014, from
https://iirc.niu.edu/District.aspx?source=Trends&source2=PSAE&Districtid=17064005026
214
Illinois State Board of Education. (n.d.). Illinois Common Core Standards. Retrieved April 15, 2014, from
http://www.isbe.net/common_core/default.htm
215
Illinois State Board of Education. (n.d.). Illinois Common Core Standards. Retrieved April 15, 2014, from
http://www.isbe.net/common_core/default.htm
216
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/District Environment/Per Student Spending. Retrieved from
https://iirc.niu.edu/District.aspx?source=Environment&source2=PerStudentSpending&Districtid=17064005026
217
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). District/District Environment/Per Student Spending. Retrieved from
http://www.illinoisreportcard.com/default.aspx
218
Illinois Report Card. (n.d.). Graduation Rate. Retrieved April 4, 2014, from
http://illinoisreportcard.com/District.aspx?source=Trends&source2=GraduationRate&Districtid=17064087025
219
U.S. Department of Education. (December 22, 2008). High School Graduation Rate: Non-Regulatory Guidance.
Retrieved from http://www2.ed.gov/policy/elsec/guid/hsgrguidance.pdf
6. Findings


140

220
Brown, D., & Chamberlain, T. (n.d.). Illinois State Board of Education: Calculating the Adjusted Cohort Graduation
Rate for School Year 2012. Retrieved from http://www.isbe.net/sis/ppt/adj-cohort-grad-rate-pres20120419.pdf - page
10
221
Heartland Alliance: Social Impact Research Center. (n.d.). 50 Years Later: Report on Illinois Poverty, McLean
County. Chicago, IL: Social Impact Research Center. Retrieved April 4, 2014, from
http://ilpovertyreport.org/county/mclean-county#.Uz7GbZxjXkJ
6. Findings
6.7 SENIORS, CAREGIVERS, & PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES


141
This section discusses the needs of
seniors, people with disabilities, and the
people who care for them in McLean
County. In addition to reviewing public
data, the 2014 Community Assessment
team gathered data from a survey and
through focus groups and key informant
interviews with seniors, caregivers, and
service providers. Seniors are predicted to be a growing percentage of the overall population
over the next two decades. More than one-fourth of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents who said they needed a senior or disability service, but did not receive it, cited
unawareness of the service as a barrier to access. Poverty, isolation, and transportation
surfaced as challenges for the senior population in 2014 Community Assessment key informant
interviews and focus groups. For people with disabilities, common themes in the 2014
Community Assessment focus group with caregivers were a desire for more supportive housing,
greater employment opportunities, and more inclusion of people with disabilities in the
community.
Caregivers
Over 30 percent of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents report living with a
person with a chronic condition, disability, disease or frailties of old age (see Figure 6.7.1). Over
14 percent of respondents identified themselves as the primary caregiver of this person.
respondents who have someone in their household with a chronic
condition, disability, disease or frailty of old age

Informal caregiving is an indispensable component of the health and wellbeing of the
older population and people with disabilities. Nearly one in four households in the U.S. provides
assistance of some kind to an older family member or member of the community. Family
members and friends provide approximately 80 percent of all home care. . . . In Illinois, there are
31.2%
68.8%
Yes
No
n=1531
SENIORS, CAREGIVERS,
& PEOPLE WITH
DISABILITIES
SENIORS, CAREGIVERS,
& PEOPLE WITH
DISABILITIES
6. Findings


142
an estimated 2.4 million family caregivers providing an estimated 1.3 million hours of care to
family members during any given year.
222
The American Association of Retired Persons
estimated the monetary value of family caregiving in the United States at $450 billion in 2009.
223

PATH provides caregiver advisory services in McLean, Livingston, and DeWitt Counties.
PATHs caregiver advisor assists family caregivers of persons 60 years and older and
grandparents 60 years and older raising grandchildren with information and assistance,
consultation and expert advice, connection to respite services, counseling and emotional
support, educational and training programs.
224
According to the East Central Illinois Area
Agency on Aging (ECIAAA), 199 McLean County families received caregiver advisory services
in fiscal year (FY) 2013.
225

Satisfaction with services
The satisfaction levels of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents who
answered Yes to using senior and disability services in McLean County are shown in Figure
6.7.2. Respondents were most satisfied with supportive services for caregivers. Senior social
group or wellness programs and subsidized housing also received high satisfaction scores.
Employment support for people with developmental disabilities earned the lowest mean
satisfaction rating.

Figure 6.7.2 Mean satisfaction of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents who used senior, caregiver, and disability services

Access to services
Fewer than three percent of survey respondents needed a senior or disability service in
the last year but did not receive it. Those who needed a service but were unable to receive it
were asked to identify why. Figure 6.7.3 shows some of the top obstacles to receiving these
services. Almost 27 percent of respondents that reported an obstacle to receiving a disability or
3.59
3
3.35
3.97
3.86
4
2.22
0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0
Adult Day Services (n=18)
Developmental Disability Screenings
(n=14)
Home Delivered Meals (n=23)
Senior Social Group or Welness
Program (n=35)
Senior Subsidized Housing (n=29)
Supportive Services for Caregivers
(n=20)
Employment Support for People with
Developmental Disabilities (n=9)
6. Findings


143
senior service did not know the service was available. Just over 22 percent did not qualify for
the service.

Figure 6.7.3 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents obstacles to
receiving disability or senior services

Unawareness of services was not only a barrier to accessing services for survey
respondents, but was also mentioned by key informants and focus groups participants. Both
called for a one-stop-shop where seniors could access information about all the services
available to them:

Somehow we need to get the word out better to seniors about where these agencies are that can
help them. I get all these calls about financial problems and all sorts of issues. We have the
answers to a lot of their questions, but not all of them.
I was surprised when we faced Alzheimers. Weve gone to our doctor since 1984. He just barely
mentioned one place where there might be some help. Then we went to the Alzheimers doctor.
The doctors need to be informed about some of these [resources]. I think sometimes they think
they know it all. The help Ive gotten is help Ive dug up myself.

My concern is not as much the seniors always knowing all the things, but the ones who are
caring for them. Sometimes they dont know where to turn.

In the focus group with seniors, computer illiteracy was identified as a barrier to
accessing information about services. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 59
percent of Americans aged 65 and over reported using the Internet in 2013, compared to 86
percent of all American adults age 18 over. According to the recently released study, many
seniors remain largely unattached from online and mobile life41% do not use the internet at
all, 53% do not have broadband access at home, and 23% do not use cell phones.
226

26.7%
9.3%
22.2%
17.3%
6.7%
17.8%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
Didn't know
service was
available
Couldn't afford
service
Didn't qualify for
service
Services
available didn't
fit the need
Transportation
issues
Other

(n=225)
6. Findings


144
Seniors
As mentioned in the McLean County Profile, older adults are a growing segment of the
County population. In 2012, there were approximately 18,676 individuals age 65 and over in
McLean County, about 11 percent of the total population.
227
The Illinois Department of
Commerce and Economic Opportunity projects the 65 and over population will rise to 18 percent
of the total population by 2030. By this time, the total county population is projected to be
199,102, with 35,838 residents over the age of 65.
228
Senior services are critical to ensuring a
smooth transition for the individuals entering retirement over the next two decades. Indicating
current senior needs, PATH responded to more than 2,000 information and assistance requests
from 1,104 older adults in McLean County in FY 2013.
229

Poverty among seniors

Approximately six percent of the population 60 and older in the Illinois Department on
Agings Planning and Service Area 5, including McLean County, live in poverty.
230
In McLean
County, approximately 431 males and 669 females 65 years and older have an income below
the poverty level according to the U.S. Census Bureaus 2012 American Community Survey 1-
Year Estimates.
231
The older poor have fewer opportunities for rising out of poverty. Nearly half
of adults (48.3%) 60 years and older live on an income of less than $20,000 per year. The
average annual Social Security benefit for retired workers in the United States was $15,528 as
of December 2013. The benefit for disabled workers was $13,716.
232

When asked about gaps in health and human services for seniors, a key informant noted
the financial difficulty many retired seniors have supporting themselves:

There are a lot of women in the 70, 80 and 90 age group who didnt work, ended up getting
divorced, and now live on these tiny little Social Security payments and are struggling. When Ive
seen what a few people are living on, I just dont know how theyre doing it.
The cost of living in Illinois exceeds the income of many seniors. Basic living costs for
older adults in Illinois range from $17,364 to $33,200. However, average Social Security
payments are only $13,118 for women and $17,255 for men, according to the Health &
Medicine Policy Research Group.
233

An isolated community
As discussed in the McLean County Profile, the number of householders living alone
aged 65 years and over increased from 4,615 in 2000 to 5,287 in 2010. The Illinois Department
on Aging reports that about one in four non-institutionalized persons 60 years and older live
alone in Planning and Service Area 5. Because women typically live longer than men, the rate
of females living alone increases with age.
234
Key informants and focus group participants
described the senior population in McLean County as isolated from the rest of the community.
This isolation was viewed as a barrier to serving their needs and communicating information
about available services:
I dont know that were properly serving our older population, and its a growing population. Its
not just people who dont have any money, but people who are older and dont have family, are
living alone, and dont have contact with the outside world. Theyre socially limited. Im not sure
were doing enough for those people.
6. Findings


145

I see the communities here that are for the aging population as isolated. They dont have much
to do with children or teens or young people . . . so you only see the same people all the time.

The ECIAAA reports that 2,545 persons aged 60 and older in McLean County received
nutrition and supportive services in FY 2013; 48 percent of these people lived alone.
235

Grandparents raising grandchildren
The State Plan on Aging reports that 257,045 grandparents are residing with their
grandchildren in Illinois, and roughly 100,821 grandparents are responsible for their
grandchildren. This trend has increased over the last two decades. The Plan cites a variety of
causal factors including drug use, teen pregnancy, and divorce.
236
In McLean County for 2012,
the U.S. Census Bureau shows approximately 619 grandparents responsible for their own
grandchildren aged 18 years or younger. Of these, 77 people were living on an income below
the poverty level in the past 12 months.
237
PATH provides support services to grandparents
raising grandchildren including a Raising Our Childrens Kids support group organized in
collaboration with the Illinois Childrens Home and Aid Society and the Childrens Foundation.
238

Elder abuse
The Illinois Department on Aging states:

. . . between 1 and 2 million Americans age 65 or older have been injured, exploited, or
otherwise mistreated by someone on whom they depended for care or protection . . . Abuse of
the elderly and adults with disabilities is the least recognized form of family violence. . . Abuse
takes many forms, and in most cases victims are subjected to more than one type of
mistreatment. In Illinois, 58% of elder abuse reports allege financial exploitation; approximately
22% allege physical abuse; 39% allege active or passive neglect; and 43% allege emotional
abuse.
239

The Adult Protective Services Program is the states program for preventing abuse,
neglect, and financial exploitation of seniors and people with disabilities.
240
Designated by the
East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging and the Department on Aging, PATH is the local
agency responsible for coordinating the Adult Protective Services Program in McLean County.
Figure 6.7.4 shows the number of elder abuse reports PATH received for calendar years 2011,
2012, and 2013.

6. Findings


146
Figure 6.7.4 Number of elder abuse reports PATH received, 2011,
2012, and 2013

Data supplied by PATH January 13, 2014, upon request
Key informants and focus group participants identified some of the gaps in reporting and
service provision for elder abuse:
Elder abuse [is an issue for seniors]. I think coordination of services related to violence is a real
problem.

I think a big problem is our nursing home care. Because they arent staffed well enough, and
people end up getting abused because they hire people with the most minimal qualifications and
pay them the least amount of money and we pay them to take care of our families and a lot times
the care is not good.

We see abuse and theft of seniors by family members. Its pretty sad. If more people knew they
could call PATH about that, there might be more reports.

Lack of affordable in-home assistance, subsidized housing for seniors
Affordable housing is discussed in more depth in the Housing and Homelessness
section. 2014 Community Assessment key informants noted a lack of affordable housing for
seniors, especially those with conditions such as Alzheimers or dementia:
There needs to be more assisted living facilities that are subsidized by the government. Assisted
living facilities are so expensive and theres only one here in town that most normal people could
afford. It could be $2,800 to $3,000 a month for a private facility, where in subsidized assisted
living the government picks up some of that cost. . . A lot of people stay in their homes when they
could be better off in one of these facilities. I think there are a lot of people that fall into that
category where they need some care, but not complete, around the clock care.

There needs to be more in-home support for people with Alzheimers and dementia. They need
to either be home with family or in a nursing home, but that is difficult for people of low income to
afford. In-home supports are available for people with private insurance, but not for people with
261
240
259
225
230
235
240
245
250
255
260
265
2011 2012 2013
6. Findings


147
public insurance.

For seniors choosing to remain in their homes, daily chores and making modifications to
the home are viewed as challenges:

Home repairs, lawn maintenance, and house cleaning [are challenges for seniors]. They cant
afford to hire someone to do the work and cant do the work themselves.

Who do you let in your home that you can trust to do these things [make modifications]? Maybe if
you get a community of people who are bonded. We had a fella who we knew who came and put
the railings in. You need a handy-man, someone you can trust without being afraid of letting them
in your house.

Transportation for seniors

Transportation is discussed in more depth in the Transportation section. However, key
informants and senior focus group participants noted gaps in transportation for the senior
population, especially those in rural areas:
I had a problem with transportation last winter. I had to go to the ER and I was there for 10 hours
and when I got out of the ER it was very cold and windy and I was scared to death walking to the
car in my parking lot. I thought the wind would blow me over. Now, Faith in Action is a wonderful
service, but they dont do emergency transport.

Transportation for people that live at home is still kind of a problem. Some nursing homes and
assisted living places only run buses for a couple hours a day, so seniors are limited to making
their appointments during those two hours. Faith in Action is a strength, but there needs to be
more transportation for seniors who dont drive.

Older folks in rural areas have a hard time getting into the city.

Senior resources
The Illinois Department on Aging divides Illinois into 13 Planning and Service Areas,
each covered by an Area Agency on Aging. Each Area Agency on Aging is responsible for
planning, coordinating, and advocating for the development of a comprehensive and
coordinated system of services for the elderly and caregivers.
241
McLean County is 1 of 16
counties covered by the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging (ECIAAA) within Planning
and Service Area 5. The ECIAAA serves individuals 60 years and older by providing
information about and access to a variety of services.
242

PATH provides and connects seniors to a range of health and human services in
McLean County through its free, 24 hour 2-1-1 crisis, information, and referral hotline. PATH
also provides information on available services through its vast online database and a print
directory of human services. In addition, PATH provides senior and caregiver counseling
services, a money management program, free options counseling on long-term support
decisions, health insurance counseling, and other services.
243

Funded by Normal Township and the Town of Normal, the Normal Senior Center
provides a range of programs and activities for McLean County seniors. These include Internet
and computer classes, a computer lab, bus trips, yoga and exercise classes, painting
workshops, discussion groups, books, and card games, and other activities.
244
The Senior
Center will likely be moving from its current location between Pine and Lincoln Streets in Normal
6. Findings


148
to Illinois State Universitys old Recreation Center at the corner of Willow and Beech Streets in
Normal. The Normal Township purchased the old Recreation Center in 2013 with plans to
convert it into the new location for the Senior Center.
245

The Peace Meal Senior Nutrition Program provides hot lunches to seniors in their homes
and at designated sites in McLean County. The program serves about 500 meals daily in
McLean, DeWitt, Livingston, Ford and Piatt Counties.
246

People with disabilities
The Americans with Disabilities Act defines a person with a disability as one who has a
physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person
who has a history or record of such impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as
having such impairment.
247
Although disabilities are discussed generally here, mental illness is
discussed more fully in the Health and Health Care and Criminal Justice sections of this report.
There are an estimated 37 million to 56 million people with a disability in the United
States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In 2011, 22 percent of Illinois adults
and 24 percent of U.S. adults had a disability.
248
The probability of having a disability increases
with age, from below 10 percent for individuals 15 years of age or younger, to nearly 75 percent
for those 80 years of age or older. With good health habits and access to health care, many
disabilities can be delayed or even prevented, the CDC notes.
249

State and national statistics are reflected in the prevalence of disabilities across age at
the local level. The U.S. Census Bureau reports in McLean County in 2012 the likelihood of
having a disability varied by age from four percent of people under 18 years old, to six percent
of people 18 to 64 years old, and to 34 percent of those 65 and over.
250
With an aging
population, the rate of disabilities in McLean County is expected to increase.
Nearly nine percent (or 14,828 persons) of the civilian non-institutionalized population
of McLean County reported having a disability in 2012. Among those who have a disability, 10.4
percent are under 18 years of age, 48.2 percent are between 18 and 64 years, and 41.4 percent
are 65 years and over.
251

Figure 6.7.5 People with disabilities in the civilian non-
institutionalized population by age, McLean County, 2012 estimates
(n=14,828)

1006
1629
620
Hudson
Heyworth
Downs
6. Findings


149
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). SELECTED SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS IN THE
UNITED STATES, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County,
Illinois. Retrieved February 25, 2014, from

According to the CDC, persons with disabilities in Illinois are more likely to report having
fair or poor health status. For example, in 2011, the percentage of adults with disabilities who
had fair or poor health was 39.4 percent, and the percentage of adults without disabilities who
had fair or poor health was 10.7 percent.
252
Adults with disabilities in Illinois also had higher
rates of obesity in 2011, at 39.7 percent, compared to adults without disabilities at 23.4 percent.
This finding is consistent with data reporting lower levels of aerobic physical activity for adults
with disabilities; only 42 percent of persons with disabilities reported being sufficiently active in
2011, compared to 54.4 percent of adults without disabilities.
253
Considering the many positive
mental and physical health benefits associated with physical activity, the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services suggests communities provide programs that help meet the
physical health needs of persons with disabilities. A search of PATHs online Directory returned
more than 70 organizations in McLean County providing services to disabled people.
One specific disability, autism, is expected to be increasingly widespread in the future.
According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 150 children were estimated to have an autism
spectrum disorder in 2000.
254
That figure has increased to 1 in 68 today. The Autism Society of
McLean County sponsors a variety of educational programs to raise awareness about autism. It
also offers supportive programming, such as a summer camp for children on the autism
spectrum in a natural outdoor setting on Lake Bloomington. Children have the opportunity to
engage in typical camp activities, including canoeing, swimming, horseback riding, games, and
much more in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
255

More permanent, supportive housing needed

Participants in the caregivers focus group said there are long wait-lists and not enough
supportive housing for people with developmental and mental health disabilities in McLean
County:

Theres need for permanent supportive housing. There are people who wont do well on their
own forever. Permanent supportive housing helps people with mental illness or other disabilities.
They are provided a place to live and a case worker that helps with problems as they arise.
Mayors Manor and Chestnut have permanent supportive housing but it is not enough. There is a
long waitlist. Funding prevents building more and theres also a lack of leadership. Many
agencies are talking about it, but no one is actually getting it off of the ground.

The group home I envision is one where there is constant supervision in the home. I would love
my child to live independently somewhere with another person.

Theres just going to need to be more group homes that are group apartment living.

The needs are greater than the resources, because to get on the list is like a 10 to 15 year wait
and then you dont know what youre going to get.

Potential for employment, education, and inclusion
Caregiver focus group participants expressed concern that the people with disabilities in
6. Findings


150
their lives were not realizing their full potential in the community. Participants said people with
disabilities are often not considered for employment opportunities they are capable of because
of stigmatizations associated with their disability. They recommended more programming to
educate area businesses about some of the most prevalent physical and developmental
disabilities in the community. Participants felt increased awareness would help expand the
number of jobs available to people with disabilities:
The two job categories [for people with developmental disabilities] are typically food or filth.
Youre either serving someone or cleaning up after someone. There are a multitude of jobs my
daughter could do that they pay someone a large amount of money to do, and she would do it for
free just for the honor of being able to do it.

As he gets older we have some concerns about what sort of job he will get when high school is
over.

I think getting a job is a major issue too. There are many with autism who are unemployed or
underemployed. They may not be the smartest employee, but they have a lot of positive attributes
too.

If all businesses in McLean County could just see just letting our kids job shadow somebody,
give them a month trial, they wont do that. We need to educate area businesses.

Focus group participants said transportation is another challenge keeping people with
disabilities from securing and maintaining employment. Employment and other opportunities for
social interaction will help persons with disabilities and their caregivers live more independently
and reduce social isolation:
I just want him to have a normal life. We had a birthday party for him and it was nice seeing him
interact with others. One of the things we struggle with is: its kind of isolating when you have a
child with mental disabilities. Im constantly in a situation of finding a way we can all have fun and
connect at the same time.

Once people graduate from school, their social life kind of stops too.

With many challenges and potential opportunities in mind, focus group participants
expressed praise for McLean Countys schools and several community organizations serving
people with disabilities:

School was for the most part, fabulous. They got a lot of job-skill experience. I tell a lot of parents
sometimes you have to choose between school and job-skill experience. And I say job-skill
experience because I think that helped them. Keeping them in school until they were 22 also
helped. Were lucky to live in McLean County. It has a lot of things.

Unit 5 is good, especially over at Normal West, where they funnel the kids with special needs
very dedicated teachers, very dedicated staff who understand whats going on. They go the extra
mile. My daughter still has lunch every month with one of the staff and she graduated six years
ago.

SOAR, Marcfirst is wonderful theyve been very kind to me, helped me with all of my questions.
SOAR has been great . . . I think they actually enjoy what theyre doing. Theyre just totally
accepting. Friends First is a wonderful thing. SPEC (Special People Encountering Christ) is
wonderful.
6. Findings


151

We work with about 75 employers here in Bloomington-Normal and we provide job coaching. If
our kids didnt have that job coaching, they wouldnt have a job.

222
Illinois Department on Aging. (n.d.). State Plan on Aging FY 2013-2015. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.state.il.us/aging/1news_pubs/publications/st-plan_book2013.pdf - page 56
223
Choula, R., Houser, A., Feinberg, L., & Reinhard, S. (2011). Valuing the invaluable, 2011 update: The growing
contributions and costs of family caregiving. Washington, DC: AARP Public Policy Institute. Retrieved from
http://hjweinbergfoundation.net/ficsp/documents/10/Caregivers-Save-the-System-Money-With-Uncompensated-
Care.pdf
224
Livingston County Childrens Network. (2014). PATH, Inc. Retrieved May 23, 2014, from
http://www.lcchildrensnetwork.org/path-inc
225
M. ODonnell, East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging, personal communication, May 21, 2014.
226
Smith, A. (April 3, 2014). Older Adults and Technology Use. Pew Research Internet Project. Retrieved from
http://www.pewinternet.org/2014/04/03/older-adults-and-technology-use/
227
Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, Illinois. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/
faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP05&prodType=table
228
State of Illinois Data Portal. (n.d.). DCEO County Population Projections. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from
229
M. ODonnell, personal communication, May 9, 2014.
230
http://www.state.il.us/aging/1news_pubs/publications/st-plan_book2013.pdf
231
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012) Poverty status in the past 12 months by sex by age, Universe: Population for whom
poverty status is determined, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved
January 23, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_
12_1YR_B17001&prodType=table
232
Social Security Administration. (April 2, 2014). Social Security Basic Facts. Retrieved May 23, 2014, from
http://www.ssa.gov/pressoffice/basicfact.htm
233
Health & Medicine Policy Research Group. (2011). Elder Economic Security Initiative Illinois. City, State: Author.
Retrieved May 23, 2014, from https://www.hmprg.org/assets/root/PDFs/2011/04/ElderEconomicSecurity_Illinois.pdf
234
235
236
Illinois Department on Aging. (n.d.). State plan on aging FY 2013-2015. Springfield, IL: Author. Retrieved from
237
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Poverty status in the THE PAST 12 MONTHS OF GRANDPARENTS LIVING WITH
OWN GRANDCHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS BY RESPONSIBILITY FOR OWN GRANDCHILDREN AND AGE OF
GRANDPARENT, Universe: Grandparents living with own grandchildren under 18 years for whom poverty status is
determined, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, Illinois. Retrieved January 30,
2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_
B10059&prodType=table Do you need to use caps above?
238
239
Illinois Department on Aging. (n.d.). What is Abuse? Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.cbrx.il.gov/aging/1abuselegal/abuse_what-is.htm
240
Illinois Department on Aging. (n.d.). Adult Protective Services. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.cbrx.il.gov/aging/1abuselegal/abuse.htm
241
http://www.state.il.us/aging/1news_pubs/publications/st-plan_book2013.pdf - page 33
242
East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging. (n.d.). Our Services (Who We Are/What We Do). Retrieved January
30, 2014, from http://eciaaa.org/our-services
243
PATH. (2012). Seniors: Senior Services. Retrieved May 23, 2014, from http://www.pathcrisis.org/services/senior-
services/
244
Normal Parks & Recreation. (2014). Senior Center. Retrieved May 23, 2014, from
http://www.normal.org/index.aspx?NID=329
245
Pawlowski, S. (2013, June 18). Old ISU Rec Center sold to Normal Township for new senior center. WJBC.
Retrieved from
6. Findings


152

http://www.wjbc.com/common/page.php?feed=211&pt=Old+ISU+Rec+Center+sold+to+Normal+Township+for+new+
senior+center&id=63093&is_corp=0
246
Swiech, P. (September 5, 2013). State orders return to Peace Meal hot lunch program. Pantagraph. Retrieved
from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/state-orders-return-to-peace-meal-hot-lunch-program/article_14892a8c-
15cf-11e3-818e-001a4bcf887a.html
247
U.S. Department of Justice. (2009). A Guide to Disability Rights Laws. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm#anchor62335
248
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, February 6). Disability and Health Data System: Illinois
Disability Status Overview. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://dhds.cdc.gov/profiles/profile?profileId=
19&geoTypeId=1&geoIds=17
249
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2011, December 16). Disability and Health: Data and Statistics.
Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/data.html
250
1-Year Estimates: McLean County, IL. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/
tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_NP01&prodType=narrative_profile
251
U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). SELECTED SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS IN THE UNITED STATES, 2012
American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: McLean County, Illinois. Retrieved February 25, 2014, from
ble
252
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, February 6). Illinois General Health Conditions Overview:
State Profile. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://dhds.cdc.gov/profiles/profile?profileId=5&geoTypeId=1&geoIds=17
253
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013, February 6). Illinois Health Risks & Behaviors Overview: State
Profile. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from http://dhds.cdc.gov/profiles/profile?profileId=6&geoTypeId=1&geoIds=17
254
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, March 12). Autism Spectrum Disorder: Data & Statistics.
Retrieved March 21, 2014 from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html
255
Autism Society of McLean County. (n.d.). Summer camp programs. Retrieved April 10, 2014, from
http://www.autismmclean.org/content/summer-camp-programs
6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


153
This section briefly outlines McLean Countys
transportation infrastructure and use of alternative
modes of transportation. It then discusses
transportation obstacles and additional findings from the 2014 Community Assessment survey,
focus groups, and key informant interviews.

McLean County commutes to work alone

Compared to the rest of the state and nation, a greater percentage of McLean County
commuters drive to work alone, and a smaller percentage take public transportation. Figure
6.8.1 shows that more than 80 percent of McLean County residents drive to work alone. Making
public transportation convenient and accessible provides extra incentive for people to cut the
number of trips they take driving alone. Fewer cars on the road means cleaner air, less traffic
congestion, and fewer dollars spent on road maintenance.

Figure 6.8.1 Percentage of people who commute to work by driving
alone, 2012

Illinois and McLean County, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates.
Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/
jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP03&prodType=table

Bloomington-Normals transportation system is largely designed for cars, and the street
layout is conducive to a consistent movement of automobile traffic. Some exceptions can be
found during peak travel periods particularly on Veterans Parkway and on Main Street (U.S.
Route 51) . . . Bloomington, Normal, McLean County and IDOT have each anticipated and
responded well to the urban regions dramatic growth by programming street and road
construction in a timely fashion as evidenced by recent or ongoing improvements to Veterans
Parkway, Towanda-Barnes Road, Raab Road and Hamilton Road, according to the 2009
McLean County Regional Plan.
256
Much money is spent maintaining Bloomington-Normals
transportation infrastructure. The 2009 Plan further states, Annual investment in the local
transportation system, while subject to variation, has in recent years included federal, state and
local funding, public and private, totaling in excess of $30 million.
68%
70%
72%
74%
76%
78%
80%
82%
McLean County Illinois United States
TRANSPORTATION
6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


154
Connect Transit

In 2012, the Bloomington-Normal Public Transit System shortened its name to Connect-
Transit. The public agency has been providing transportation service to Bloomington-Normal
since taking over the private service provider in 1972. Upon findings from an intensive study of
transit needs in 2003, the agency added more routes on the far west side, extended hours of
operation, and increased the number of buses on the road.
257
Connect Transit runs buses on 11
fixed routes Monday through Saturday. Service is not provided on Sundays, or the following
holidays: New Years Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and
Christmas. While exact times vary for each route, operation begins between 6:05 and 6:55am,
and ends between 8:55 and 10:05 pm on weekdays. Hours are slightly different on Saturdays,
with operation starting between 6:45 and 7:55 am, and ending between 8:55 and 10:05 pm.
During the academic year, Connect-Transit NiteRide buses run every half hour between 9:30pm
and 1:00am. Service is free for students with an ID and standard fare rules apply for the general
public. All buses have lifts to assist people incapable of using the steps. In addition, curb-to-curb
paratransit service is available for persons with disabilities.
258

Fares for Connect-Transit are $1.00 for adults and $.50 for disabled persons with a
Medicare or Connect Transit I.D. Monthly passes are $29.00. Seniors aged 65 and over, and
children Kindergarten and younger, ride free. Funding for Connect-Transit funding comes from
the State of Illinois and the Federal Transit Administration. Additional funding comes from the
Town of Normal, City of Bloomington, fare revenue, and service agreements with Illinois State
University.
259

Taxis and additional services

Five taxi companies operate in Bloomington-Normal.
260
The City of Bloomington
regulates taxi cab rates. These are $2.50 when a passenger enters the vehicle, $.40 for each
additional 1/6
th
mile, $.50 for each additional passenger, and $.50 for wait time. Senior citizens
receive a 15 percent discount. Rides can be purchased any time of day, but cab rides can be
cost prohibitive for low-income residents. Additionally, some cab companies offer shuttle buses
for groups of eight or more requesting rides in Bloomington-Normal. Shuttle rates are between
$3.00 and $4.00.
261

SHOW BUS provides public transportation for rural residents of several Central Illinois
Counties including McLean. The agency operates scheduled routes to Bloomington-Normal
Monday through Friday from rural communities throughout McLean County. Buses arrive in
Bloomington-Normal by 10:30am, and return to the rural communities between 2:30 and 3:15.
Round trip fares are $5.00 for persons under 60. Anyone 60 or older rides free. If the scheduled
route does not work for someone, SHOW BUS also offers special services. Prices for this type
of service vary. This service operates via federal, state, and local funding sources, public and
private.
262

Faith in Action, a Bloomington- Normal based not for profit, provides spiritual, physical,
and emotional support to seniors 60 years and over.
263
In addition to other supportive services,
the volunteer-run organization offers transportation to medical appointments and grocery
shopping for seniors in Bloomington-Normal. Sometimes volunteers will pick up the groceries for
clients, often using their own vehicles and gasoline.

6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


155
Walking, cycling and transportation planning

The Constitution Trail is a multi-function trail through Bloomington-Normal consisting of
24 miles of pavement that connect people and places through recreation and alternative modes
of transportation. Residents walk, jog, bike, rollerblade, or sashay their way down the trail. From
south to north, the trail extends from Grove Street in Bloomington to Kerrick Road in North
Normal. The east-west segment intersects south of the Normal City Hall Annex and continues
east to Towanda-Barnes Road via Tipton Park. The Liberty Branch starts near State Farm Park
and continues east to Lincoln Street, while another branch starts at Rollingbrook Park and
travels east to Oakland Avenue. An extended segment of the trail travels west through
Bloomington along a former rail alignment.
264

In 2009, the Town of Normal approved a Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
265
Current
strengths noted in Normals bike and pedestrian system were Uptown Normal land use
characteristics, the presence of many walk and bike-friendly streets, and the use of warning
signage at trail/roadway crossings.
266
Some noted weaknesses were driver behavior, sidewalk
obstructions, limited street connectivity, and the uncomfortable walking and bicycling
environment around high-volume streets.
267
The plan invites readers to imagine building a
transportation system that reduces fuel consumption, enables freedom of mobility, encourages
more physical activity, allows children to walk and bike to schools, and makes it possible to
create economic growth at the same time.
268

In October 2013, the Bloomington City Council approved bike lanes to connect Illinois
Wesleyan University, downtown, and the Constitution Trail. The route will run along Front
Street from the Constitution Trail intersection near Allin Street almost to the Beer Nuts plant . . .
To connect Downtown to Wesleyan, sharrow lanes will run from Front along Prairie Street, jog
east on Walnut and continue along Park Street to Franklin Avenue.
269
The Council also voted to
have the League of Illinois Bicyclists draft a bike master plan for Bloomington. In early 2014, the
McLean County Regional Planning Commission and City of Bloomington launched an
interactive Website where members of the public can share their thoughts on what should be
included in the Plan (go to http://bloomingtonil.mindmixer.com/.) In addition, West Bloomingtons
Neighborhood Plan includes biking paths, clearly-defined crosswalks, and other streetscape
improvements as suggestions for the future.
270

On the county-level, the McLean County Regional Planning Commissions
Transportation Advisory Committee includes representatives from Connect Transit, the YWCA,
SHOWBUS, Faith in Action, Marcfirst, and others, who meet monthly to assess transportation
gaps and provision of services.
271
This planning, as well as the positive spirit of cooperation
between different transportation providers, was viewed as a strength.

Use of alternative transportation

While U.S. Census data show that a great majority of McLean County residents drive to
work alone (over 80%), data also indicate that some walk, carpool, or use public transportation.
Figure 6.8.2 shows the most popular alternative to commuting alone is carpooling and county
residents use public transportation at a lower rate than the rest of the state and nation.

6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


156
Figure 6.8.2 Alternative styles of commuting to work

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau. (2012). Selected Economic Characteristics: United States,
Illinois, and McLean County, 2012 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates.
Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/
pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_DP03&prodType=table

Consistent with census data on McLean County overall, most 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents (87.6%) use a vehicle owned by someone in the household for
work transport (see Figure 6.8.3). Of the 967 respondents, only 2.9 percent reported walking or
biking to work and 1.6 percent use Bloomington-Normal public transit.
While use of public transportation in McLean County is low overall, Connect Transit
ridership increased 21 percent from 2009 to 2013, from 1,643,192 to 2,067,267 (see Figure
6.8.4). Ridership refers to the number of individual rides given.

Figure 6.8.3 Transportation to work for 2014 Community

0% 5% 10% 15%
Public Transportation
Walked
Carpooled
United States
Illinois
McLean County
87.6%
1.0%
1.6%
2.9%
3.0%
3.9%
Vehicle owned by
someone in household
Vehicle of someone
outside the household
Bloomington / Normal
public transit
Walk / Bike
I work from home
Other
(n=967)
6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


157
Figure 6.8.4 Connect-Transit annual ridership

Source: Connect Transit

Transportation obstacles and concerns for rural residents

Inability to afford maintenance or repairs to ones vehicle and issues with bus routes or
times were the most frequently reported obstacles for those 2014 Community Assessment
survey respondents who have trouble obtaining reliable transportation to work. This suggests a
need to make affordable transportation alternatives more accessible. Among 2014 Community
Assessment respondents who said they had difficulty obtaining work transportation, just over 20
percent felt that bus routes do not travel to their desired destination and bus times are
inconvenient (see Figure 6.8.5).

obstacles obtaining reliable transportation to work

0
500,000
1,000,000
1,500,000
2,000,000
2,500,000
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
13.3%
23.5%
7.1%
21.4%
20.4%
14.3%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Do not have
a vehicle
Have a
vehicle but
can't afford
maintenance
or repairs
Do not have
a valid
license
Bus routes
do not travel
to where I
need to go
Bus times
are
inconvenient
Other
(n=98)
6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


158
Focus group and key informant participants echoed these concerns about transportation
for work and noted transportation barriers to accessing services and community participation.
Examples of their comments follow:

People that do want to work, they cant work past 9 oclock because the buses stop running. So,
now youve got to take a cab just to get home. Its miserable standing outside and waiting for a
bus in the winter. On Sundays the bus doesnt run so that cuts you out of working jobs that are
kind of far away on Sunday.

Clients may not show up to an appointment because their car broke down.

Transportation is problematic. If theres no transportation, kids cant get involved in activities,
which is so important in long term learning. The bus doesnt go to Normal Community High
School. The closest it comes to our church is Sams Club. So many people want to come to the
church here but they dont have a way to get here.

Those commuting from rural areas are some of the most affected by transportation
issues. A rural key informant noted that for the rural underemployed, gasoline prices have a big
impact on their ability to access jobs and services. For this reason, many individuals and
families move to Bloomington-Normal. Other key informants and focus group participants voiced
similar concerns:

Older folks in rural areas have a hard time getting into the city.

Transportation in rural areas is a challenge. Its hard for people to find public transportation into
the cities where there are jobs.

Another big part of that is the size of the county. There are some areas that dont have health
providers in the geographic area. Youve got to go to Bloomington-Normal, which isnt necessarily
easy for people in rural areas. Especially, for people who have to depend on public transportation
in these areas that is a big barrier.

Key informants and focus group participants also expressed concern that declining or
limited financial resources are hampering service providers ability to offer transportation:

Government is extraordinarily strapped financially and I think that is just going to become a
greater plague down the road [making transportation more difficult to provide].

We [social service agency] do not have the financial means to provide transportation here
anymore.

Looking at varying revenue sources for transportation. Transportation truly is stopping a lot of
these things were talking about [bus trips to the zoo or the farmers market].

Within this picture of strapped resources, one key informant noted a high degree of
cooperation between service providers. Other key informants and focus group participants also
praised specific services such as the Seniors Program bus service.

Connect-Transit, YWCA Medivan, Scott Health Center, and Faith in Action all work together
nicely. There is a Transportation Advisory Board they look at ways to fill in the gaps and
different resources to tap into.

6. Findings
6.8 TRANSPORTATION


159
One 2014 Community Assessment key informant noted some transportation gaps for
people under 60 without a medical need or with other special needs:

Transportation with wheelchair access . . . Transportation for people who have an emergency or
a more urgent care need and cannot call in advance to make an appointment . . . Transportation
for people living outside the Bloomington-Normal area and for people trying to get to and from
places outside of McLean County.

256
to Sensible Growth Through Regional Cooperation. Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
257
258
Connect Transit. (2013, August). Riders Guide: Maps and timetables to help you get around Bloomington-Normal.
Retrieved January 24, 2014, from http://www.connect-transit.com/documents/Maps/New%20Maps%208-12-
13/Connect%20rider%20guide%20Aug%202013.pdf
259
260
Yellow Pages. (2014). Normal Taxi. Retrieved January 28, 2014 from http://www.yellowpages.com/normal-il/taxi
261
CHECKER Cab Co. (2014). Rates. Retrieved May 21, 2014, from http://bloomingtonchecker.com/rates
262
SHOW BUS Public Transportation. (2013). McLean County Service. Retrieved January 24, 2014, from
http://www.showbusonline.org/McLean.html
263
Faith in Action Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. (2014). Who We Are. Retrieved April 10, 2014, from
http://public.bnfia.org/?page_id=10
264
to Sensible Growth Through Regional Cooperation. (McLean County Regional Planning Commission publication).
Bloomington-Normal, IL. Retrieved October 7, 2013, from
http://www.mcplan.org/egov/documents/1342739612_12279.pdf - page 118
265
https://www.normal.org/DocumentCenter/Home/View/873
266
Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan. (2009). Executive Summary. (page ii). Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://il-
normal.civicplus.com/documentcenter/view/4209
267
Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan. (2009). Executive Summary. (page ii). Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://il-
normal.civicplus.com/documentcenter/view/4209
268
Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan. (2009). Chapter 1. Introduction. (page 1). Retrieved January 28, 2014, from
http://il-normal.civicplus.com/documentcenter/view/4201
269
City of Bloomington. (2013). Bike Routes in the Works: Council Supports Unanimously. Retrieved January 28,
2014, from http://www.cityblm.org/index.aspx?page=518
270
West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan. (2009). Strategies and Projects. (page 12). Retrieved January 28, 2014,
from http://lilt.ilstu.edu/gmklass/pos233/reports/West%20Bloomington%20QOL%20Plan%2011.18.08.pplan
271
McLean County Regional Planning Commission. (2014). Transportation Advisory Committee. Retrieved April 10,
2014, from http://www.mcplan.org/department/board.php?structureid=36
6. Findings
6.9 CRIMINAL JUSTICE


160
CRIMINAL
JUSTICE
Criminal justice is a local, state, and national concern. While
McLean County has a lower crime rate than Illinois, both rates have
been declining in recent years. Despite this trend, more than 1 in 5
2014 Community Assessment survey respondents responded to
the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean
County? by talking about crime, safety, or drugs, indicating a perception that crime is prevalent.
In addition to crime, this section discusses the McLean County Detention Facility, which was
operating at or near capacity between 2003 and 2011. The Illinois State University Stevenson
Center recently analyzed data that shows total bookings at the facility are down in the last few
years, and the facility is increasingly being used to house more serious offenders. The McLean
County Detention Facility has come under scrutiny for its housing of mentally ill inmates. Plans
to address this population and housing are being considered by the McLean County Board.
Finally, this section briefly considers problem solving courts and the lack of housing options and
delays in treatment for mentally ill persons leaving jail, as well as concerns about police
relations with youth and Hispanic and Latino populations.

A large and growing prison population in Illinois and the United States

The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world. The U.S. prison
population has risen by a factor of 12 over the last few decades, from approximately 200,000 in
1973 to roughly 2.4 million today.
272
The Illinois prison population also rose to a record high of
49,154 in 2012, with the previous record being set the year before. The Illinois prison system
was designed to accommodate a population of 33,700, according to an AP Pantagraph article in
2012.
273
Overcrowding is costing Illinois taxpayers more than $1 billion annually.
274
Given the
exploding rate of incarcerated individuals in Illinois and across the country, there is much debate
about the best course of action regarding non-violent offenders. In Illinois, these offenders make
up nearly 70 percent of the jail population.
275

Crime rate and volume

The crime rate indicates the prevalence of crime occurring across a given
population.
276
It is calculated from statistics on Index Crimes comprising eight categories
including criminal homicide, forcible rape, robbery, aggravated battery/aggravated assault,
burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The crimes of criminal homicide, forcible rape and
aggravated battery/aggravated assault are classified as crimes against persons and the
remaining five are crimes against property. The crime rate is calculated by dividing the number
of Index Crimes reported within a given jurisdiction (either a city, town, village, county or state)
by the population, and then multiplying that number by 100,000.
277
In addition to the crime rate,
crime is also measured by volume, the aggregate total number of crimes for each category. The
key difference between crime rate and volume is that the crime rate controls for population size,
while crime volume is merely the number of offenses.

McLean County crime trends

The crime rate in Illinois dropped from slightly above 5,500 1994 to 3,073 in 2011.
278
The
crime rate in McLean County is also declining; falling from 3,177 in 2008 to 2,407 in 2011.
Figure 6.9.1 shows the decreases for Illinois and McLean County from 2008 to 2011. There
were 4,106 Total Index Crime Offenses (crime volume) reported in McLean County in 2011, a
10.4 percent drop from the year before, and a 20 percent drop from 2008 when the number of
6. Findings


161
total offenses was 5,218.
279

Figure 6.9.1 Crime rate in McLean County and Illinois, 2008-2011

Sources: Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois
2010-2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from
http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2011.cfm and Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program.
(2011, May 6). Crime in Illinois 2009. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from
http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2009.cfm

Despite declines in crime rate and volume, 2014 Community Assessment respondents
perceive crime is a problem in the County. One-fifth (21%) of the 1,520 responses to the
question, What are you most concerned about in McLean County? were related to crime,
drugs, and safety:
280

Crime, I moved here in 1988 and McLean County has changed, and it is beginning to have
problems like the Big city.

crime rateuse of drugsviolence in the streets

Increased crime which is covered up and not exposed by police & new venues.

crime, gangs, wasted money

crime going up, jobs unavailable

crime & youth programs to keep youth away from crime & violence. Mental health potentially
relating to recent string of violent incidents & deaths.

I'm concerned about all of the crime. People can't walk down the street without having to look
over their shoulder to make sure they are not going to get robbed or shot at.

Illinois State Police statistics in Figure 6.9.2 show the number of reported offenses and
arrests in McLean County in 2011. While reported crimes against property greatly outnumbered
crimes against persons, the likelihood of an arrest was greater for crimes against persons. Of
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
2008 2009 2010 2011
McLean County
Illinois
6. Findings


162
447 reported crime offenses against persons, 212 arrests were made (or 47%); of 3,659
reported crime offenses against property, 916 arrests were made (or 25%).
281

Figure 6.9.2 Total McLean County index crime offenses by type,
2010, 2011

Source: Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois 2010
2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from

By far, theft was the most frequently committed criminal offense in McLean County in
2011 (2,593 offenses) (see Figure 6.9.3). The second most frequently reported offense was
burglary (872), followed by aggravated battery/assault (352), forcible rape (93), and motor
vehicle theft (90). Robbery offenses dropped 33.9 percent, from 122 to 81, and forcible rape
offenses increased 19.2 percent, from 78 to 93, between 2010 and 2011.
282

Figure 6.9.3 Total index crime offenses by type, McLean County

Source: Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois 2010 2011.
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Crimes against persons Crimes against property
Offenses
Arrests
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
Criminal Homicide/Murder
Forcible Rape
Robbery
Aggravated Battery/Assault
Burglary
Theft
Motor Vehicle Theft
Arson
2011
2010
6. Findings


163
Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2011.cfm

Figure 6.9.4 shows where the 4,106 Total Index Crime Offenses in 2011 occurred by the
police agency reporting them in McLean County. A vast majority of Index Crimes occurred in
Bloomington-Normal; 2,119 Index Crimes were reported in Bloomington, and 1,410 were
reported in Normal in 2011.
283

Figure 6.9.4 Total index crime offenses by agency in McLean
County, 2011

Source: Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois 2010
2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from

Both the number of total drug arrests and arrests for the Cannabis Control Act (CCA)
increased in McLean County from 2008 to 2011 (see Figure 6.9.5). CCA arrests were 57
percent of total drug arrests in 2011 (802 CCA arrests out of 1,404 total drug arrests). Other
drug arrests during these years were for violations of the Controlled Substances Act, the Drug
Paraphernalia Act, the Hypodermic Syringes/Needle Act, and the Methamphetamine Act.

0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
6. Findings


164
Figure 6.9.5 McLean County drug crime arrests, 2008-2011

Sources: Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois
2010 2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from
http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2011.cfm ;
Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2011, May 6). Crime in Illinois 2009.
Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from

Bloomington Police Department offense reports for 2012 and 2013 show that serious
crime reports increased in 2013 from the year prior (see Figure 6.9.6). These are the official
Uniform Crime Report statistics submitted to the Illinois State Police.

Figure 6.9.6 Bloomington Police Department Uniform Crime Report
offenses 2012, 2013
UCR Offenses 2012 2013 Percent Change
Homicide
1 2 100%
Criminal Sexual
Assault
42 58 38%
Robbery
45 59 31%
Aggravated
Battery
293 287 -2%
Burglary
357 413 16%
Theft
1379 1474 7%
Motor Vehicle
Theft
44 54 23%
Arson
12 8 -33%
Total
2173 2355 8%
Source: Bloomington Police Department

The Bloomington Police Department notes that while crime has been slightly increasing
the last 2 years, the totals are still very close to our 5 year average. We still are experiencing a
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
2008 2009 2010 2011
Total Drug
Arrests
Cannabis
Control Act
Arrests
6. Findings


165
lower crime rate than what was recorded 4 and 5 years ago.
284

A February 2014 Pantagraph article reports that gang-motivated shootings fell from 14
investigated in 2012 to 5 in 2013. Bloomington police said the decrease was a result of long
prison sentences given to the persons involved with previous shootings. Bloomington police
also indicated the 2013 incidents were not related, unlike many of the shootings in 2012. Normal
police also said gang activity is less of a problem today than it was 7 or 8 years ago.
285

McLean County criminal justice programming needs

2014 Community Assessment survey respondents rated the need for different kinds of
criminal justice programming in McLean County on a scale of 1 to 5; 1 being not needed, and 5
being very much needed. Respondents said violence prevention services were the greatest
criminal justice need with a mean of 3.7. The second highest rated need was for more services
for battered/abused spouses, with a mean of 3.58. Despite the attention paid to crime, drugs
and safety issues in response to the question, What are you most concerned about in McLean
County? the mean need score for more crime awareness/prevention services was 3.56 (see
Figure 6.9.7). Needs for services for ex-prisoners and legal services were rated at 3.28 and 3.12
respectively.

mean ratings of need for additional criminal justice programming

The McLean County Detention Facility (MCDF)

The McLean County Detention Facility (MCDF) is connected to the McLean County Law
and Justice Center, located at 104 West Front Street, in Bloomington. In 1976, the Law and
Justice Center facility replaced the old McLean County Courthouse and McLean County Jail,
which were no longer meeting the increased needs of the County. When constructed, the new
MCDF facility had a capacity for 85 inmates. As the Countys population has increased, the
MCDF inmate capacity has also increased. In 1990, an additional three stories were added to
the Law and Justice Center and capacity of the McLean County Detention Facility was
expanded by 108 cells allowing for 193 inmates.
286
A 2013 Pantagraph article says the capacity
3.7
3.28
3.56
3.58
3.12
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Violence Prevention (n=1067)
Services for ex-prisoners (n=981)
Crime awareness/prevention
(n=1134)
Services for battered/abused
spouses (n=1038)
Legal services (n=1021)
6. Findings


166
at MCDF has increased to 205 inmates. The article also discusses plans the McLean County
Boards property committee is considering for increasing housing for mentally ill inmates.
287

Figure 6.9.8 shows the MCDF was consistently operating near or above its capacity between
2003 and 2011.

Figure 6.9.8 Average daily adult population at the McLean County
Detention Facility, 2003 to 2011

Sources: McLean County Sheriffs Office. (n.d.). 2011 sheriffs office annual report.
Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/3068 ;
McLean County Sheriffs Office. (n.d.). 2008 sheriffs office annual report. Bloomington, IL:
Author. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/101

Bookings and length of stay at the MCDF

Data analysis by the Stevenson Center at Illinois State University shows several trends
for the use of the MCDF. First, total annual bookings declined from 4,261 in 2007 to 3,889 in
2013 (see Figure 6.9.9). Second, while the number of Black persons booked at the MCDF fell
between 2007 and 2013, the percentage of Black persons in the MCDF was still high compared
to the population of Blacks in the County. The number of bookings of Hispanic persons by year
is relatively unchanged. On average by year, Blacks and Hispanics stayed in the jail longer than
Whites between 2007 and 2013. Though further analysis is needed, this difference is likely due
to the severity of the charge, the Stevenson Center notes.
288

0
50
100
150
200
250
300
Male
Female
Male and Female
6. Findings


167
Figure 6.9.9 Total bookings by year at the MCDF, 2007-2013

Source: Illinois State University: Stevenson Center for Community and Economic
Development. (2014). Presentation to the McLean County Criminal Justice Coordinating
Council. Normal, IL: Author. Retrieved upon request.

While total bookings declined, booking trends varied by type of offense.
289
Some types of
offenses are considered more serious than others and involve longer sentences. Felonies, for
example, are more serious than misdemeanors and usually involve a jail sentence longer than
one year.
290
The most serious felonies are M and X felonies. A Class M felony is murder, and
entails a minimum 20-year sentence.
291
Class X Felonies, such as aggravated criminal assault,
usually involve a sentence between 6 and 30 years. Felony classes then decrease in severity,
with minimum sentence durations from one to four years.
292

In McLean County, bookings increased for Class M or X Felonies, Class 1 Felonies,
Class 2 Felonies, Class 3 Felonies, and DUIs between 2007 and 2013 (see Figure 6.9.10). The
most significant increase was in Class 2 Felonies, such as burglary, arson, and motor vehicle
theft, which rose from 377 bookings in 2007 to 489 in 2013. The increases in Class 1 Felonies
and DUIs were very small, from 325 to 333 for Class 1, and from 172 to 176 for DUIs. Bookings
decreased for Class 4 Felonies, Misdemeanors, Other and No Charge, from 2007 to 2013 (see
Figure 6.9.11). The Other category involves offenses not classified as Misdemeanors or
Felonies, such as Ordinance or Traffic Violations. No Charge means the individual was
booked, but charges were not pursued, including out-of-county warrants.
293

3800
3900
4000
4100
4200
4300
4400
4500
4600
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
6. Findings


168
Figure 6.9.10 MCDF bookings increase for Class 1, Class M or X,
Class 2, and Class 3 Felonies, and for DUIs


Figure 6.9.11 MCDF bookings decrease for Class 4 felonies,
misdemeanors, other, and no charge


Generally, the length of stay is longer for those charged with more serious crimes. Those
charged with Class M or X felonies stayed in the MCDF an average of 106 days in 2013, while
those charged with Misdemeanors stayed an average of 4 days. The average length of stay was
69 days for persons charged with Class 1 Felonies; 39 days for persons charged with Class 2
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Class 1
Class M or X
Class 2
Class 3
DUIs
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Class 4 Felonies
Misdemeanors
Other
No Charge
6. Findings


169
Felonies; 21 days for persons charged with Class 3 Felonies; and 22 days for persons charged
with Class 4 Felonies in 2013. Those charged with Ordinance and Traffic violations stayed an
average 12 days, and those charged with a DUI stayed an average of eight days. Overall, the
average length of stay is largely unchanged for most offenses in the last few years with a few
exceptions. The average length of stay for persons charged with Misdemeanors decreased from
eight days in 2007 to four days in 2013. The average length of stay for those charged with Class
M or X Felonies increased from 85 days in 2007 to 106 days in 2013.
294

Looking at bookings and duration of stay across offense types, the Stevenson Center
found that . . . across years . . .the jail is increasingly being used for felony cases. Cases
involving Misdemeanors, DUIs, Traffic Violations, Ordinance Violations, and Warrants are
consuming far less of the jail than they were in each of the previous 6 years.
295
Placed within
the context of the State prison system, in which non-violent offenders are crowding Illinois jails,
this data points to a more efficient use of the MCDF.

Mental illness in the MCDF

The 2008 Sheriffs Office Annual Report states it is the Inmate Assessment Specialists
job to evaluate the mental health of those booked in the MCDF.
296
There are three criteria used
to determine if someone who is booked in the MCDF has a mental disability including having a
diagnosis of mental illness, being suicidal, and being low-functioning. If a person exhibits any of
the three conditions, they are considered mentally disabled.
297
From January through June,
2008 to 2013, there were increases both in the number of bookings and in the average length of
stay for persons with a mental disability. From January through June 2008, there were less than
50 mentally disabled persons booked, compared to nearly 70 persons in 2013. A mentally
disabled person stayed in the MCDF less than 5 days per booking on average from January
through June, 2008. That figure increased to nearly 20 days per booking in 2013.
Increases in persons with a mental disability booked through the MCDF may be partially
caused by an increased attention to diagnoses than there used to be, according to the
Stevenson Center. Criminal Justice Coordinating Council members point to a decline in the
availability of services through state and non-profit social service agencies for helping the
mentally disabled as partial explanation for the influx of mentally disabled persons entering the
MCDF since 2007, and the longer amount of time they are staying on average.
298

In July 2013, the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) published a report discussing the
conditions for mentally ill inmates in the MCDF and critiquing the Countys mental health system
as a whole. The report noted a lack of space for mentally ill inmates in the MCDF, who must be
separated from other inmates. It described the current local community mental health delivery
system as ineffective in significantly reducing the suffering of its citizens or in reducing
mentally ill involvement in the criminal justice system. It is clearly unable to provide timely or
adequate levels of services to meet the needs of the community without significant changes and
determined commitment among government officials and community leaders.
299
In response to
the findings of the NIC report, the McLean County Boards property committee began reviewing
options for addressing the housing of mentally ill inmates in December 2013.
300

Mental health emerged as a crucial criminal justice issue in the 2014 Community
Assessment survey, focus groups and key informant interviews. Several key informants
expressed concern over the increased frequency of mentally ill persons being funneled through
the criminal justice system, and the related challenges this creates. This problem has worsened
as State funding for mental health programs and psychiatric care has declined, informants
noted:

6. Findings


170
If the corrections system or law enforcement is the only way people can access mental health
treatment, theres going to be more people entering that system, either voluntarily or
involuntarily.

It [mental health] is a huge issue for local government because our police and fire departments
are dealing with individuals who need psychological care and are becoming caught up in our
criminal justice system. . . No one wants to take a person who has an emotional problem to jail,
but sometimes there is no where else to put them. I think that is a paramount issue in our
community that needs to be addressed locally. Funding has diminished at the state and federal
level, so we need to address it at the local level, and we need to provide the resources for
organizations to provide these services and ensure they are performing them.

We need to get patients cleaned up after they have been in jail, but when they come up they
cant get seen for 4 to 6 weeks in Bloomington-Normal. Between that time, they commit another
crime and end up right back where they started. They need to make an appointment with mental
health services right when they know they are getting out of jail.

Some 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents expressed concern for the
mentally ill involved with the criminal justice system in response to the question What are you
most concerned about in McLean County?

complete lack of mainstreaming of social servicesuse of law enforcement agencies to provide
mental care needs (mainstreaming to incarceration)

concerned about the mentally disabledmany times they are in jail with no medical help and do
not belong therethese needs to be help for themnot just putting them in jailHelp them!
[as] a mother of a mentally disabled [person] we are told its a one way ticket they have to get
home on there own they need help not jailplease help them!

Taxes & mental health prisoners at county jail.

Problem-solving courts and housing for the mentally ill

A criminal justice key informant noted the creation of problem solving courts to deal with
drug offenders and substance abuse dependent and mentally ill individuals involved in the
criminal justice system. A March 2014 Pantagraph article says the McLean County Drug Court,
for example, has been providing treatment, counseling, and assistance locating housing and
employment to people struggling with substance abuse since 2006. The program has graduated
61 persons, only three of whom have re-entered jail after graduating. Another problem-solving
court, the Recovery Court, serves people with mental illness. Eleven people have graduated
from the program which began in 2011, and three of them have re-entered jail.
301
, One key
informant said finding housing was difficult for those in the Recovery Court program:

Recovery courts are having a tough time helping clients get into housing. It is difficult to
decriminalize mental illness. Bloomington Housing Authority has strict requirements that exclude
a lot of people with mental illness.

Other mental health gaps include providing timely counseling and psychiatric
medication management services for persons with mental illness, a key informant said.
Mentally ill persons leaving jail also lack affordable housing options:

6. Findings


171
Theres about 26 beds available of a sheltered nature in McLean County that Im aware of.
Those operated by the Center for Human Services have wait lists of, I dont know, ten years. We
have a lot of people who will just never find a sheltered housing living environment.

One key informant gave some suggestions for improving the community mental health
system:

Theres no real easy answer. I believe that there are some things the community could do that
would have an impact on the challenges the jail and others are experiencing that could be more
costeffective than bricks and mortar. Specifically, increased psychiatric care, case management,
and what is called scattered-site apartments for high-risk people who struggle to live
independently because of a disability.

One key informant noted progress in the criminal justice system in providing treatment
for perpetrators of domestic violence:

Our legal system is working with the social service system to address [mental health]. So, were
lucky in that respect because its not happening in other counties at all.

Re-entering society

Key informants and focus group participants also noted the resources needed for
helping the formerly incarcerated re-enter society:

Felons, or people with just a record, are not able to get work when they get out of prison. We get
a lot of that in the ministries.

There are a lot of people in jail who are actually smart. And if you can find out what theyre good
at, you can help them develop that. I worked at Home Sweet Home and that helped me fill in
gaps in my resume.

Our churches talk about the prisoners who get released and the high recidivism, and they end up
going back to prisons, and we need to focus on helping those folks.

Immigration and police relations

Participants in the Spanish-speakers focus group expressed a desire for immigration
reform, equality, and to be treated respectfully. Participants recalled instances of harassment by
the police. The issue of relations with police is consistent with the 2008 Hispanic and Latino
Community Study, which noted profiling and abuses of power toward the Latino community:
302

We would like there to be more meetings so we can continue to organize ourselves. We hope
that they will stop deportations and when there is a deportation that someone helps attend to the
children (psychologists and social workers to help the children when something happens to the
parentschildren are beginning to be fearful of police). It would also be nice if police would use
more reservation when arresting someone in front of children; that police are more careful with
the children.

Before, the police were calmer, but then there began to be stories in the paper about immigrants
and things became less tranquil. At simply seeing Hispanics, the police check social security
cards. It has happened multiple times when the police follow Hispanics, arrest them and these
people are citizens.
6. Findings


172

The police once mentioned that here we do this to everyone that was not born in the United
States.

This has caused many people to go back to their country of birth or leave Bloomington because
they are scared.

Participants said they would like to see more organization in the Spanish-speaking
community to come together and work to solve these issues.
Participants in the West Bloomington neighborhood focus group also raised concerns
about the attitudes of police toward young people:

I've seen 6 or 7 boys with basketballs [outside]. We would say they are going to play but police
see something else [trouble] . . . Just because they are together isn't bad. Race and baggy pants
don't mean anything. Let them be. Kids can't wait to leave the community. They don't feel safe or
included.

In addition to the MCDF, the county also operates the Juvenile Detention Center located
at 903 N. Main Street in Normal. This facility opened in 1993 and has capacity for 26 juveniles,
ages 10 and up.
303

272
Pinard, M. (2006). Integrated perspective on the collateral consequences of criminal convictions and reentry
issues faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. Boston University Law Review, Vol. 86, pp 623-690. Retrieved
http://128.197.26.36/law/central/jd/organizations/journals/bulr/volume86n3/documents/PINARDv2.pdf
273
OConnor, J. (2012, September 17). Illinois prison population at all-time high. Pantagraph. Retrieved December
20, 2013, from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/state-and-regional/illinois/illinois-prison-population-at-all-time-
high/article_8cdc32d4-00f6-11e2-8121-0019bb2963f4.html
274
Greig, J. (2013, February 26). New report says non-violent criminals are clogging Illinois prisons. Medill Reports.
Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=216885
275
Ohri, S. (2013, February 8). The Chicago lawyers committees review of alternatives for non-violent offenders.
Chicago, IL: Chicago Lawyers Committee. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://www.clccrul.org/blog/executive-
summary%3A-chicago-lawyers%2526%2523039%3B-committee%2526%2523039%3Bs-review-alternatives-non-
violent-offen
276
Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013, August 5). Crime in Illinois 2010 2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois
State Police. Retrieved from http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2011.cfm
277
278
Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2011, May 6). Crime in Illinois 2009. Springfield, IL: Illinois State
Police. Retrieved from http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2009.cfm ; Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2013,
August 5). Crime in Illinois 2010 2011. Springfield, IL: Illinois State Police. Retrieved from
279
Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program. (2011, May 6). Crime in Illinois 2009. Springfield, IL: Illinois State
Police. Retrieved from http://www.isp.state.il.us/crime/cii2009.cfm ;
280
313/1520 = 20.59
281
282
283
284
Police Department: City of Bloomington, Illinois. (February 28, 2014). Uniform Crime Reports for calendar years
2009 through 2013. Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved upon request.
6. Findings


173

285
Wells, R. (2014, February 10). Crime up, gang activity down in Bloomington. Pantagraph. Retrieved from
http://www.pantagraph.com/crime-up-gang-activity-down-in-bloomington/article_e58d6d09-3eac-5f34-89a5-
b59885983a45.html
286
McLean County, Illinois. (n.d.). Facilities: law and justice center. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/9
287
Brady-Lunny, E. (2013, December 6). County panel outlines steps for jail expansion. Pantagraph. Retrieved from
http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/county-panel-outlines-steps-for-jail-expansion/article_54e13942-5e1f-11e3-
936d-001a4bcf887a.html
288
Illinois State University: Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development. (2014). Presentation to the
McLean County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. Normal, IL: Author. Retrieved upon request.
289
290
Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers. (n.d.). Illinois criminal code and laws. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.myillinoisdefenselawyer.com/illinois-criminal-code-and-laws/
291
Two sources: Dolak, R. D. (n.d.). Felonies. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.rdolaklaw.com/defense.htm#felonies ; Chicago Legal Authority. (n.d.). : Murder. Retrieved January 30,
2014, from http://chicagolegalauthority.com/criminal/murder/
292
Chicago Legal Authority. (n.d.). Felony classes. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://chicagolegalauthority.com/criminal/felony-classes/
293
Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyers. (n.d.). Illinois criminal code and laws. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.myillinoisdefenselawyer.com/illinois-criminal-code-and-laws/ ; Dolak, R. D. (n.d.). Felonies. Retrieved
January 30, 2014, from http://www.rdolaklaw.com/defense.htm#felonies
294
295
296
McLean County Sheriffs Office. (n.d.). 2008 sheriffs office annual report. Bloomington, IL: Author. Retrieved
January 28, 2014, from http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/101
297
298
299
Goldman, M. Ray, K. A. NIC Technical Assistance Request No. 13J1069, McLean County Sheriffs Detention
Facility, Jail Mental Health Design and Programming Options & Opportunities. United States Department of Justice,
National Institute of Corrections, Washington, DC. July 23-26, 2013. Retrieved December 17, 2013 from
http://www.pantagraph.com/national-institute-of-corrections-report-on-mental-illness-and-mclean/pdf_a475bace-
3092-11e3-984e-0019bb2963f4.html
300
Brady-Lunny, E. (2013, December 6). County panel outlines steps for jail expansion. Pantagraph. Retrieved
January 28, 2013 from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/county-panel-outlines-steps-for-jail-
expansion/article_54e13942-5e1f-11e3-936d-001a4bcf887a.html
301
Brady-Lunny, E. (2014, March 17). Court programs provide treatment, options to jail. Retrieved March 21, 2014
from http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/court-programs-provide-treatment-options-to-
jail/article_031c31ff-7180-5a3a-80d6-bf9131264df3.html
302
Bliss, Rebecca. (2009). Hispanic and Latino Community Study: Needs and Assets. Bloomington, IL: Hispanic
Families Work Group. Retrieved January 21, 2014, from
http://static.squarespace.com/static/510221b5e4b091edd3f0ad54/t/52192e5ce4b0f11bee535049/1377381980451/Hi
spanic%20and%20Latino%20Community%20Study%202009%20Part%201.pdf
303
Sources: McLean County, Illinois. (n.d.). Juvenile Detention Center. Retrieved January 30, 2014, from
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/index.aspx?NID=254 ;

6. Findings
6.10 COMMON THEMES & CONCLUDING REMARKS


174
COMMON THEMES &
CONCLUDING
REMARKS
The 2014 Community Assessment provides a
better understanding of the needs and
resources in the health and human service
system in McLean County. The review of public
data, interviews with key stakeholders, focus
groups with key populations, and a
comprehensive survey of McLean County
residents were the methods used to conduct this research. The information coming from this
project can act as a guide for concerned citizens, service providers, government officials, non-
profit agencies, and businesses to make recommendations to direct McLean Countys abundant
resources and improve health and quality of life for residents. This section outlines common and
significant themes coming from participants in the research process and secondary data. These
are not the only themes. Readers of this report can work together to determine what is
meaningful and useful to improve McLean Countys overall health.

McLean County has abundant services in many areas with the opportunity for increased
collaboration

Secondary data, survey responses, and focus group participants indicated there are
many health and human services available in McLean County (see the Housing and
Homelessness, Health and Human Service Profile, and Seniors, Caregivers, and People with
Disabilities sections). There are a total of 585 health and human service agencies in McLean
County, ranging from churches, food pantries, and youth centers to senior living facilities,
libraries, and health clinics (see the Health and Human Service Profile section and Figure
6.1.1). In the 2014 Community Assessment focus group on homelessness, participants said
McLean County has many services for individuals who are experiencing homelessness. More
than half of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they participate in a faith-
based or religious organization; nearly one-third said they participate in a common interest
group, and one-in-five said they participate in community service (see Figure 6.1.2).
In the 2014 Community Assessment focus group with caregivers, many participants
expressed praise for McLean Countys schools and community organizations serving people
with disabilities. In Child & Youth Development & Education, key informants described McLean
County as a place with many child, youth, and education services, and said there was
opportunity for these providers to collaborate in a more holistic way. They could develop more
partnerships between schools and businesses to help prepare students for the workforce, or
have youth non-profits collaborate when applying for grants and additional funding sources.
Another key informant said there are numerous agencies providing mentoring services, but
liability issues prevent some youth from accessing transportation to receive these services. In
the Health and Health Care section, key informants said the silo-ing of State funding for
service provision leads to competition between providers for limited funding.

Unawareness of available services

In many sections, 2014 Community Assessment participants expressed unawareness
about the scope of services available. In the focus group with seniors, participants called for a
one-stop shop where they could access information about all services pertaining to the senior
population in McLean County. One focus group participant said all the help they have found
they have dug up on their own. Participants also identified computer illiteracy in the senior
population as a barrier to accessing information about available services. Among 2014
6. Findings


175
Community Assessment survey respondents who said they needed a senior or disability service
in the last year but were unable to get it, unawareness that the service was available was the
obstacle identified the most. A key informant for the non-English speaking population said there
is a lack of awareness in this population of the services available to them (see the Health and
Human Service Profile).
Half of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they did not know if there
was a need for additional services for seniors, or people with intellectual/developmental
disabilities (see Figure 6.1.8). Between 40 and 45 percent of respondents said they did not
know if there was a need for additional services for people experiencing homelessness, hunger,
mental illness, or needing assisted living (see Figure 6.1.8). Residents who are unaware about
the need for services may also be unaware of the available services for these populations in the
broader community
Finally, in the Employment section, key informants said there needs to be greater
awareness of existing employment services. Some participants expressed concern about
misleading training, certification, and degree programs, which promise a job but do not
necessarily lead to one. Over two-thirds (68.3%) of 2014 Community Assessment survey
respondents said there is a need for additional services for people who are seeking
work/unemployed (see Figure 6.1.4).

Poverty as a risk factor

Having an income below the poverty line threatens a persons ability to access basic
needs and services such as housing, transportation, and dental services. As shown in the
Housing and Homelessness section, rental housing in McLean County has become increasingly
unaffordable in the last 15 years (see Figure 6.3.4). With no expansion in public housing, the
burden on those living in poverty to access affordable housing has increased.
Focus group participants and key informants expressed concern for rural McLean
County residents, especially those who are in poverty. They have fewer transportation options
and are impacted more by fluctuations in the price of gasoline than those living and working in
Bloomington-Normal. For those with limited financial means, transportation obstacles can
function as a barrier to obtaining and sustaining employment.
A number of key informants and focus group participants said it is more difficult for low-
income populations to access dental care, which is essential to overall health and wellbeing.
Among the 448 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents who said they did not receive
dental care in the last 12 months, a majority (61%) said cost was an obstacle to getting care
(see Figure 6.5.14).
The Health and Health Care section show having an income below the poverty line puts
people at increased risk for mild or severe health problems. OSF Saint Joseph Medical Centers
Community Health Needs Assessment said poverty is a factor that has a major impact on health
and well-being. It found that nearly one-fourth of those living in poverty in McLean County
consider the Emergency Department their primary source of health care, and 44 percent of
those in poverty were unable to obtain medical care when they needed it in the past year. The
2014 Community Assessment health focus group participants also identified poverty as an
important health issue. A key informant described how people in poverty sometimes have to
prioritize between different basic needs, such as buying food or accessing health care. 2014
Community Assessment survey respondents with lower incomes generally reported poorer
health (Figure 6.5.2).
In the Child & Youth Development & Education section, one key informant discussed
how healthy children have a better chance of succeeding in the classroom. Secondary data
6. Findings


176
shows that children coming from households in poverty having a higher likelihood of
experiencing poor health. Since 2009, there has been an increase in the percentage of students
coming from low-income households in six out of the eight public school districts in McLean
County (see Figure 6.6.7). McLean Countys graduation rate for low-income students is 65.6
percent and 85 percent for the entire student population. The low-income graduation rate is
particularly concerning given the evidence that having more education increases earning
potential and reduces the likelihood one will live in poverty (see Figure 6.2.13). If these
education and poverty trends continue, even more people will experience poverty in McLean
County.

Transportation

While 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents rated street improvements and
sidewalks as the most needed additional public services (see the Health & Human Service
Profile), transportation issues surfaced in almost every section of the 2014 Community
Assessment, and were often said to be a barrier to accessing services. In the Employment
section, 30 survey respondents, as well as some key informants and focus group participants,
identified transportation as an employment barrier, especially for people living in rural areas or
those without a drivers license. In particular, participants in the 2014 Community Assessment
Spanish-speaking focus group said getting a drivers license was an employment barrier. In the
Health and Health Care section, transportation was identified as a barrier for rural and senior
residents to access health care services. In the Seniors, Caregivers, and People with
Disabilities section, participants in the caregivers focus group said transportation was a
challenge preventing some people with disabilities from keeping a job. In the Transportation
section, 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents identified obstacles to obtaining
transportation to work. Of 98 respondents, 21 said bus routes do not travel where they need to
go, 20 said bus times are inconvenient, and 7 said they do not have a valid drivers license.

Mental health services and supportive and affordable rental housing

Mental illness and a need for health services was expressed through each facet of this
research (see the Criminal Justice, Health and Health Care, and Health and Human Service
Profile sections). Multiple key informants called for increasing funding at the community level to
address mental health, and 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents rated mental
health services as the second highest additional programming need in the County (after
services for abused/neglected children). When asked about specific populations needing
additional services, respondents most frequently said people with mental illness (see Figure
6.1.8).
In the Criminal Justice section, key informants described how some people experiencing
mental illness become caught up in an incarceration cycle. One person said it can take four to
six weeks for people to access mental health services after being released from jail. Another
said the Bloomington Housing Authority mental health requirements make it more difficult for
them to find affordable housing. When those experiencing mental illness can only get treatment
in the criminal justice system, a key informant explained, there will be more people entering the
system. Some 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents expressed concern about
what one respondent described as mainstreaming to incarceration for people with mental
illness.
The Health and Health Care section shows that 10 percent of 2014 Community
Assessment survey respondents experienced eight or more days in the last 30 when their
6. Findings


177
mental health was not good. Among respondents who said they needed but were unable to
access mental health services, almost one in four said cost was their biggest obstacle to getting
help. In addition, OSF Saint Joseph Medical Center, the McLean County Health Department,
and participants in the 2014 Community Assessment health focus group ranked mental health a
top priority issue. According to Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, mental health cases were
the leading cause of emergency room visits in 2010. The Center for Human Services (CHS) told
a McLean County Board mental health advisory panel there were 25 people waiting to see a
psychiatrist at CHS in March, according to a Pantagraph article. It can take CHS multiple
hours to respond to the number of crisis calls that come into the Center. The McLean County
Health Department concluded in their latest Community Health Plan that many persons with
mental health conditions have limited access to essential health and social care.
304

Housing in McLean County is becoming increasingly unaffordable for renters (see the
Housing and Homelessness section). While there has been a 33 percent increase in the
population of McLean County since 1990, there has been no new construction of public
housing. Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in McLean County is the highest among
Central Illinois Counties. Nearly half of renters in McLean County paid 30 percent or more of
their income on rent in 2012, a rate considered to be unaffordable by HUD standards. About
26 percent pay more than 50 percent of income and are considered severely rent burdened.
Key informants and focus group participants called for greater supportive housing for
people with mental illness, disabilities, and seniors. See the Seniors, Caregivers, and People
with Disabilities, and Health and Health Care sections. Indicating this need, a nearly equal
percentage of 2014 Community Assessment survey respondents said they did not know if there
is a need for more supported housing or services for assisted living in McLean County (44%) or
yes, there is a need (42%). Only 14 percent indicated there is no need. As rental housing in
McLean County has become less affordable since 1999 (see Figure 6.3.4), people who rent
(34% of residents) are at increased risk of homelessness, especially those who are living on an
income below the poverty level.

Declining government, grant funding threatening ability to provide services

Several 2014 Community Assessment key informants said declining state, federal and/or
grant funding is compromising the ability of service providers to meet community needs. In the
Child & Youth Development & Education section, a key informant said that reductions in public
education funding from the state could make it harder to find quality teachers to replace the
teachers who are retiring. In the Criminal Justice section, a key informant tied the increased
frequency of people with mental illness being funneled into the criminal justice system to the
erosion of state funding for mental health services. In the Health and Health Care section, a key
informant said declining state funding for mental health services has led to a situation where
those experiencing moderate mental illness in McLean County are getting left behind. A
participant in the 2014 Community Assessment focus group with caregivers said funding, as
well as a lack of leadership, is what is preventing the building of more permanent, supportive
housing for people with mental illness or disabilities. Additionally, in the Housing and
Homelessness section, an official with the Bloomington Housing Authority (BHA) said federal
funding reductions and the unpredictability of funding streams present challenges for BHA.
Finally, in the Transportation section, a 2014 Community Assessment focus group participant
from an area human service agency said funding reductions have caused the elimination of
transportation services from that agency.

6. Findings


178
Concluding remarks

We are providing the public with the information we have received. The 2014 Community
Assessment researchers are grateful for the opportunity to interact with and learn from so many
talented, diverse, passionate, and hard working people who were willing to share their time with
us during the research process. These participants, volunteers, and partners made this project
possible
Those who came to focus groups, served as key informants, and filled out the survey are
the real authors of this report. Their stories, hopes, and concerns are what we want to convey.
There are more than 172,000 people with stories about what it is like to live in McLean County:
stories from teachers and students, parents and children, males and females, rural and urban,
young and old, from a variety of cultural and religious heritages, and education and income
levels. If at times the findings seem contradictory, complex, or nuanced, it is because every
participant in the research process experiences living in McLean County differently. Each
person and data point provided a unique insight into this experience and the health and human
service system.
As McLean County nears its bicentennial, its population is growing larger, older, more
urban, and more diverse. The 2014 Community Assessment reveals threats to education,
income, and health. But it also shows McLean Countys people, its greatest asset, working
everyday to bring forth a brighter future. They make their communities places where every
persons value is celebrated. They make McLean County a place where people not only live and
work, they also play, learn, and thrive. They make it a place where each persons unique talents
contribute to the greater good. Each of us can articulate our own vision for McLean County. And
each of us has the power to speak and create change for ourselves, our families, and the
broader community.

304

8. Appendices

179

8. Appendices
APPENDIX A Household Survey Cover Letter

Community Assessment 2014
Help your neighbors, help yourself
July X, 2013
Dear McLean County Neighbor,
You have been chosen at random to participate in the McLean County Community Assessment
2014 by completing this survey. This project will look at human service and health needs of
McLean County residents and the Countys ability to meet those needs. Your response is
voluntary and may help improve the quality of life for all of us.
Others in your household can help complete the survey which may take 15 or more minutes of
your time. Your household includes anyone living with youpeople in your family and not in
your family. We only ask that someone age 18 or older participate in completing the survey.
Your participation is important to be sure that all communities in McLean County are
represented. Benefits to you may include the opportunity to express your opinions and
contribute to a County-wide assessment that will impact health and human services in the years
to come. Any risks to you for taking the survey are minimal. There is some potential for your
discomfort from questions where you may have strong feelings or experiences. If you chose not
to take the survey or to respond to particular questions, there is no penalty to you.
By completing and returning this survey you are consenting to your survey information being
combined with other surveys and summarized in Assessment reports. Your responses will be
kept confidential and anonymous throughout the Assessment and reporting. You will not be
identified in reporting or to anyone advising on the project.
We encourage you to fill out the survey and ask that you return it by August X, 2013.
Surveys can be completed online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/M5D2XY5 or returned in
the attached business reply envelope. Please see the other side for instructions on
completing the survey.
The United Way of McLean County is directing this project. More information can be found at
www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-assessment/. You may contact me, Ashley Long, at (309)
828-7383 or by email at along@uwaymc.org. Thank you for participating in Community
Assessment 2014!
Sincerely,
Ashley Long
Director of Community Impact
If you have any questions about your rights as a participant in this Assessment, or if you feel you have been placed at
Por favor participe en La Evaluacin de la Comunidad 2014. La versin en espaol
est disponsible en https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MZ5VJK2. Si usted necesita
ayuda en completar la encuesta, por favor llame (309) 829-4807.
.
8. Appendices
APPENDIX A Household Survey Cover Letter

risk, you can contact the Research Ethics & Compliance Office at Illinois State University at (309) 438-2529.
Completing this survey includes three easy steps:
1. Mark
We want to hear from you! Please mark the survey in a way your answers can
be read.
Please use a PENCIL or BLUE or BLACK ink to complete this survey. NO GEL
PENS PLEASE!
If you make a mistake using a pencil, please erase the incorrect response
completely. If you make a mistake using a pen, please place an X through the
incorrect response.
2. Stuff
Please use the self-addressed envelope included in your survey packet to return
your survey.
3. Send
The postage has already been paid. Simply drop the completed survey and
envelope in the mail by August X, 2013. Your answers will help community
practitioners plan for the Countys future needs!
Complete the survey online!
Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/M5D2XY5
for more details.
8. Appendices
APPENDIX B Household Survey Instrument

8. Appendices

8. Appendices

8. Appendices

8. Appendices
APPENDIX C Key Informant Consent Form

McLean County Community Assessment 2014
Informed Consent for Interview Participants
You have been invited to participate in the McLean County Community Assessment 2014 as a
key informant interviewee. This project will look at human service and health needs of McLean
County residents and the Countys ability to meet those needs.
A number of research activities are being used to collect information for this Assessment. In
addition to reviewing public data, surveying residents, and holding a series of focus group
discussions, research staff members are conducting interviews with a range of individuals.
Information coming from key informant interviews will help us interpret data from other sources
and make informed recommendations for the future.
You have previously received a copy of the general "Interview Guide" that will be used to
structure our conversation. Please do not hesitate to use specific examples to answer general
questions or to introduce important topics that do not appear on this instrument. Our discussion
may take up to an hour.
Your responses are voluntary. Benefits to you for participating may include the opportunity to
express your opinions which will help health and human service organizations identify and
address issues facing our County and its residents, and may enhance quality of life for
everyone. Any risks to you for participating in an interview beyond what you might experience
in everyday life are minimal. There is some potential for your discomfort from questions where
you may have strong feelings or experiences. If you chose not to participate, or to end our
interview after it has started, there is no penalty to you.
By participating, you are consenting to your interview information being reported with other
information coming from Assessment activities and summarized in Assessment reports. Your
responses will be kept confidential throughout the Assessment process and reporting; any
information that might allow someone to identify you will not be disclosed.
The United Way of McLean County is directing this project. More information about this project
can be found at www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-assessment/ You also may contact Ashley
Long, Senior Director of Community Impact, at (309) 828-7383 or by email at
along@uwaymc.org. Thank you for participating in Community Assessment 2014!
Statement of Consent:
I have read the above information. My questions about the project have been answered to my
satisfaction. I consent to participate in the project and know that my responses will remain
confidential. I understand a copy of this form will be made available to me.
Date:______________________________________
Printed name:_____________________________________________________________
Signature:________________________________________________________________
If you have any questions about your rights as a participant in this Assessment, or if you feel you have been placed at
risk, you can contact the Research Ethics & Compliance Office at Illinois State University at (309) 438-2529.
8. Appendices
APPENDIX D Key Informant Interview Instrument

McLean County Community Assessment 2014:
Key Informant Semi-Structured Interview Guide
Date:__________
Name of interviewer:_________________________________
Name of interviewee:_________________________________
Interviewee's job title (if applicable):________________________________________________
Brief description of responsibilities:
Why?
system? Why?
County?
McLean County?
you like to make?
8. Appendices
APPENDIX E Focus Group Participant Consent Form

McLean County Community Assessment 2014
Informed Consent for Focus Group Participants
You have been invited to participate in a small group discussion for the McLean County
Community Assessment 2014. This project will look at health and human service experiences
and needs of McLean County residents though a number of activities. Your responses during
the discussion are voluntary and may help organizations and community groups identify and
address issues facing our County and its residents and improve quality of life for everyone.
Generally, this discussion will ask about:
Your experiences and opinions with [topic of the group];
Strengths of health and human services you may have utilized;
Unmet needs you or others you know may have; and
Improvements that could be made to health and human services.
There are no risks to you in participating in this discussion beyond what you might experience in
everyday life. If you chose not to participate, or to leave the discussion after it has started, that
is all right. By participating, you are agreeing to your conversation being summarized with other
information coming from Assessment activities. Your name, though, will be kept confidential. It
will not be shared with anyone or associated with your comments.
The United Way of McLean County is directing this project. More information about this project
can be found at www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-assessment/ You also may contact Nicole
Smith, Assistant Director of Community Impact, at (309) 828-7383 or by email at
nsmith@uwaymc.org. Thank you for participating in Community Assessment 2014!
Date:______________________________________
Printed name:_____________________________________________________________
Signature:________________________________________________________________
If you have any questions about your rights as a participant in this Assessment, or if you feel
you have been placed at risk, you can contact the Research Ethics & Compliance Office at
Illinois State University at (309) 438-2529.
8. Appendices
APPENDIX F Focus Group Participant Consent Form Spanish Version

Evaluacion del Condado de McLean 2014
Formulario de Autorizacin para Participantes en el Grupo de Enfoque
Usted ha sido invitado a participar en un pequeo grupo de discusin para la evaluacin de la
comunidad de McLean 2014. Este proyecto se enfocar, a travs de una serie de actividades,
en reas de la salud, servicios humanos y necesidades de residentes del condado de McLean.
Sus comentarios durante la discusin son voluntarios y ayudarn a esta organizacin y a otros
grupos a identificar y trabajar en problemas que el condado y sus residentes enfrentan para
mejorar la calidad de vida de todos.
En General el foro se enfocara en lo siguiente:
Sus experiencias como hispano hablante en el condado de McLean.
Fortalezas de servicios de salud y servicios humanos que haya utilizado.
Necesidades no satisfechas suyas o de otras personas que conozca.
Mejoras que se podran hacer a los servicios humanos y de salud.
No hay riesgos por participar en este foro ms all de los riesgos de la vida diaria. No hay
ningn problema si usted no desea participar o quiere salirse del foro antes de haber
terminado. Al participar usted acepta que sus comentarios sean utilizados en el resumen de las
actividades de las evaluaciones. Sin embargo, su nombre ser mantenido en reserva. No ser
compartido con nadie o asociado con sus comentarios.
Este proyecto est dirigido por United Way del Condado de McLean. Para mayor informacin
dirjase a www.uwaymc.org/2014-community-assessment/ o puede contactar a Nicole Smith,
Director Asistente de Impacto a la Comunidad. Gracias por participar en la Evaluacin de la
Comunidad del 2014
Declaracin de Autorizacin:
Certifico que he ledo la informacin contenida en este documento. Mis preguntas acerca del
proyecto han sido satisfactoriamente respondidas. Estoy de acuerdo con participar en el
proyecto y s que mis respuestas sern confidenciales. Yo entiendo que tengo acceso a una
copia de este documento si as lo deseo.
Fecha:______________________________________
Nombre Completo:_____________________________________________________________
Firma:________________________________________________________________
Si tiene alguna pregunta acerca de sus derechos como participante en esta evaluacin, o si
siente que usted ha sido puesto en riesgo, puede contactar a la oficina de Cumplimiento y tica
de la Universidad Estatal de Illinois en el (309)438-2529
8. Appendices
APPENDIX G Sample Focus Group Guide

Focus Group Guide
GENERAL
Welcome
Hello everyone! Welcome, and thank you for talking with me today and thank you,
[organization/agency name], for making it possible for us to talk with you!
Introduction
Let me introduce our team: Im ____________ and I will be facilitating the discussion, and this is
______________ and he/she will be taking notes. We are from ______________, and we are
conducting a Community Assessment to look at human service and health needs of McLean
County residents, and the Countys ability to meet those needs. We are holding this focus group
to better understand your experiences as a McLean County senior resident. The information
gathered from this discussion will be used to inform the Town of Normals and City of
Bloomingtons Consolidated Plans and will help guide future efforts to improve the well being of
our community.
We have asked you here tonight because you represent a very important group of people in
McLean County: seniors. The way we look at it, YOU are the experts here. We value your
opinions. What you tell us during this discussion will help us enormously.
Ground Rules
Before we begin, let me mention a few things about how we usually conduct these groups:
1) I will be the facilitator for the group. My role is to ask the questions and encourage
everyone to participate. I wont be doing much talking, but may ask you to explain more or
to give an example. Also, its my job to see that everyone has a chance to voice their
opinions, as well as to keep us moving along so that we have time to discuss all of the
questions. So, at times, it might seem as though I am cutting you off, and this is not meant
to be rude, but rather to make sure that we have time to have a complete discussion of each
question.
2) Its really important that everyone hear this: THERE ARE NO RIGHT OR WRONG
ANSWERS!!! Each persons experiences and opinions are valid, and we want to hear a
wide range of opinions on the questions well be asking. So, please speak up, whether you
agree or disagree with whats being said, and let us know what you think.
3) We want to make sure everyone has an equal opportunity for participation in todays
discussion. The discussion will go best when everyone contributes, nobody dominates, one
person talks at a time, and there are no side conversations.
4) Sometimes participants bring up sensitive issues during these discussions, and we want to
be sure that everyone agrees that anything of a personal nature that is mentioned in this
room will NOT be repeated to others outside of this discussion group. It is okay to talk
generally about the group discussion afterward as long as you do not talk about specific
individuals and what they have said.
5) Let me tell you about our note-taking process. [Name of note taker] will be taking notes
throughout this discussion. He/she will not be writing names next to who says what. Your
identity will remain confidential. When we put together the results from all the groups, your
8. Appendices

names wont be included.
6) Lastly, keep in mind that our primary focus is on the future. We want advice from you about
how the issues faced by (whatever focus of group is) residents of McLean County can best
be solved.
Does anyone have any additions or changes to be made to this list of ground rules? [If yes, add
them now]
We plan to be finished with our discussion by [time]. Please be sure to shut off your phone and
keep it some place where you wont it distract you.
At this time, lets take a look at the consent form in front of you and make sure we have covered
everything written. [If there is anything left uncovered, cover it now] If you are comfortable
with participating in this focus group, please sign this form and hand it to [name of note taker].
******************************************************************************
Lets start by going around the circle and saying your name, how long you have lived in
McLean County, and something fun you did over the summer.
Thanks, everyone! Now, lets talk a little about our community in general. For these first
two questions, we will go around the circle so everyone has a chance to talk.
1. What do you see as your ideal community?
How is that different from how things are now?
2. Given what you all just said, what do you think are the top concerns or issues in the
community?
Why are these issues important to you?
That is great information! Now, I am going to ask some questions specific to your
experiences as a resident in McLean County.
3. Overall, how well do you feel McLean County does in providing health and human services
to its residents?
Why is that?
4. In your opinion, what are the strengths of McLean Countys health and human service
delivery system?
What makes that a strength?
Why do you think that strength exists?
5. In your opinion, what are the weaknesses of McLean Countys health and human service
delivery system?
What makes that a weakness?
Why do you think that weakness exists?
8. Appendices

6. Do you feel the health and human services provided in McLean County meet your needs?
If not, how so? Why do you think that is?
7. How could McLean Countys health and human services be improved to meet your needs?
Are there certain services missing?
8. What do you think you can do to improve the McLean Countys health and human service
delivery system and the overall well-being of McLean County residents?
Thank you so much. Thats all of the questions I have. But before we finish, Id like to
know whether Ive missed anything.
9. Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience as a McLean County
resident?
8. Appendices
APPENDIX H Sample Focus Group Recruitment Flyer

8. Appendices
APPENDIX I Qualitative Coding Scheme

2014 COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT
CODING SCHEME
Themes
1. Community Challenge/Issue
2. Strengths in the System
3. Weaknesses in the System
4. Gaps in the System
5. Duplications
6. Under-used or Unrecognized Resources/Services
7. Recommendations for Improvement
Categories
8. Education
9. Youth
10. Physical Health
11. Mental Health
12. Housing
13. Homelessness
14. Economic/Income Concerns
15. Employment
16. Transportation
17. Rural
18. Criminal Justice System
19. City/Government
20. Seniors
21. People with Disabilities
22. Non-English Speakers
23. Infrastructure
24. Community Overall
25. Caregivers
8. Appendices
APPENDIX J Illinois State University Stevenson Center Assessment Report

Our Town: A Neighborhood Assessment
in Support of the
UNITED WAY OF MCLEAN COUNTY 2014 COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT

Artwork Courtesy of: a local resident

Prepared by Prepared for

This project was completed by graduate student researchers, under the guidance of
Dr. Joan Brehm, in economics, political science, and sociology at
the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development.

Researchers include: Calvin LeSueur, Daniel Sheets-Poling, Rachelle A. Wilson,
Katie Raynor, Brett Michaelson, Katie Simpson, Matthew Tomlin, Ramya Kumaran,
Christina Davila and Nay Petrucelli.
2 | S t e v e n s o n C e n t e r f o r C o m m u n i t y a n d E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t
Acknowledgements
The Neighborhood Assessment was completed by the combined efforts of many individuals in
McLean County. This report would not have been possible without the hard work, dedication, and
contribution of government workers, community groups, researchers, and members of the
community. Researchers from the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development
at Illinois State University would like to thank the United Way of McLean County for giving us the
opportunity to conduct the Community Needs Assessment; specifically, we would like to extend this
thank you to Ashley Long and Nicole Smith for your advice and helpful suggestions throughout our
initial planning phase.
Furthermore we would like to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the Key Informant
Participants. Without their time, cooperation and coordination, the Community Assessment would
not be as detailed and the information collected would not be as robust as it is. Additionally, we
would like to thank them for their support throughout the focus group recruiting process.
Equally, researchers from the Stevenson Center would like to thank the neighborhoods and
community members who took the time to share their opinions and experiences with us during this
assessment. Their contribution has been essential to the assessment and to the final
recommendations proposed by the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development.
Finally, it is necessary to acknowledge the support received from local organizations and businesses.
We would like to thank Wayman AME Church, Jacobs Well Church, Stevenson Elementary School,
and the Lexington Community Center for hosting neighborhood focus groups. We would like to
thank Dr. Vernon Pohlmann for the Pohlmann Family Development Grant, which allowed us to
procure refreshments and materials for conducting the focus groups during this assessment. Also,
we would like to thank Famous Daves BBQ in Bloomington and Kemps Upper Tap in Lexington
for providing refreshments to participants of these focus groups. Finally, we would like to
acknowledge the participation and assistance of Stevenson Elementary PTO, The Center for Family
and Youth Solutions, WGLT and the West Bloomington Revitalization Project during our focus
group recruiting efforts.


Abstract

This report addresses the question: What factors have the strongest impact on communal
and individual well-being in different neighborhoods in McLean County? It is one part of the larger
United Way of McLean County Community Assessment 2014, which will evaluate the assets and
needs of McLean County by focusing on respondents experiences receiving health and human
services. Our findings are based on data from five key informant interviews and four focus groups.
This information was collected from four geographically and economically distinct neighborhoods:
rural Lexington, East Bloomington, Normal, and West Bloomington. Common themes that
emerged from these sessions are: the dearth of opportunities for young people, the desire for more
local businesses, praise for city services such as garbage collection, the desire for growth of
community, and the importance of churches. A number of other findings, limitations of the
assessment, and recommendations and future research are discussed.

Table of Contents
I. Introduction 6
II. Literature Review 7
III. Conceptual Design 11
IV. Research Methods 13
V. Findings 16
Key Informants 16
Focus Groups 20
Common Themes 25
VI. Project Recommendations 30
VII. Recommendations for Future Assessments and Research 42
VIII. Limitations of the Study and Conclusions 45
IX. References 47
X. Appendices
Appendix AKey Informant Contact Script 50
Appendix BKey Informant Consent Form 51
Appendix CKey Informant Interview Protocol 52
Appendix DFocus Group Consent Forms 53
Appendix EFocus Group Interview Protocol 54
Appendix FMarketing Materials: Sample flier 56
Appendix GEast Bloomington Neighborhood Map 57
Appendix HWest Bloomington Neighborhood Map 58
Appendix INormal Neighborhood Map 59
Appendix JLexington Neighborhood Map 60
Appendix KTargeted Advisory Council Members 61
Appendix LAbout the Stevenson Center 65


List of Tables

TABLE 1 Key Informant Roles 14

TABLE 2 Focus groups 15

TABLE 3 Housing: Common Themes 25

TABLE 4 Safety: Common Themes 26

TABLE 5 Social Cohesion: Common Themes 27

TABLE 6 Youth: Common Themes 28

TABLE 7 Community Resources: Common Themes 28

TABLE 8 Recommendations 30

I. Introduction
The Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development at Illinois State
University in partnership with the United Way of McLean County (UWMC) conducted a
Community Assessment in Fall 2013 to determine the assets and needs of specific types of
neighborhoods in McLean County by focusing on respondents experiences with social services. We
developed the following research question to guide our assessment: What factors have the
strongest impact upon communal and individual well-being in different neighborhoods in McLean
County?
We conducted five key informant interviews and four neighborhood focus groups (one in
Lexington and Normal, two in Bloomington). From the key informant interviews with local officials,
we obtained valuable knowledge that aided in shaping the design of community focus group
meetings. The focus groups facilitated an in-depth analysis of what individual respondents in
neighborhoods identified as a priority for their community. Community indicators that were
examined included: safety, civic engagement, health services, economic status, access to services,
infrastructure, education, community organizations, and youth options. The findings of this project
enable UWMC to more accurately target the interests of different populations within McLean
County, inform key stakeholders of the issues identified by local respondents, and demonstrate the
impact of services among different neighborhoods, allowing for better strategic planning. This
report will be incorporated with the larger Community Assessment released by UWMC in Spring
2014.
II. Literature Review
We reviewed a wide array of scholarship in order to better understand some of the themes
we would encounter during the Community Assessment. The relevant literature discussed the
definition of community, neighborhood, sense of community, social cohesion, social bonds, and the
physical environment as measurable indicators of individual and communal well-being. Relatedly, we
found that poverty greatly impacts the level of individual and communal well-being. These findings
guided our research question, interview protocol, and methodologies, and were critical to our
understanding of the complex interrelated factors affecting communal and individual well-being.
A working definition for community has been provided by Wilkinson (1991:2):
Conventionally, there are three elements of the community, namely, a locality, a local
society, and a process of locality oriented collective actions. The third of these is the focus
here and is termed the community field ... A locality is a territory where people live and
meet their daily needs together. A local society is a comprehensive network of associations
for meeting common needs and expressing common interests. A community field is a
process of interrelated actions through which respondents express their common interest in
the local society. While sociologically important units other than the community could
embody one or two of these elements, the community, as used here, embodies all three
elements.
The neighborhoods we examined were consistent with the idea of a locality, local society and a
process of locality oriented collective actions (Wilkinson 1991:2-3).
One of the primary reasons that modern researchers struggle with the concept of the
neighborhood is that the fine lines of a traditional neighborhood, both spatially and figuratively,
have become blurred; the geographic confines of neighborhoods and their social significance have
morphed substantially in recent generations (Mallach 2008; Sampson, Morenoff, and Gannon-
Rowley 2002). The standard system of defining neighborhoods by street boundaries may be
inaccurate due to the tendency for people to avoid crossing major thoroughfares (Sampson et al.
2002). This relates to the distinction, and in some cases, the confusion between the understanding


of the neighborhood and the community. There are instances in which individuals and groups may
not identify strongly with their designated neighborhoodthat is, their geographic locationin
surveys which are designed to evaluate exactly that (Chavis and Pretty 1999). As such, it is crucial
for researchers to account for these discrepancies when assessing a neighborhood or community.
Sense of community (SOC) is one indicator of a healthy community. Sense of community
is a feeling that members have of belonging, a feeling that members matter to one another and to
the group, and a shared faith that members' needs will be met through their commitment to be
together (McMillan 1976: 9). The level of SOC can determine how problems are solved in a
neighborhood, and impacts the mental well-being of respondents. Research on the effects of sense
of community are only meaningful if data can be organized and analyzed in an accurate way.
Researchers vary in the metrics they use, the scope of their analysis, and the perspective they take in
formulating their research questions.
In terms of choosing a research method, Charzdon and Lott (2010) discuss key informants
and their importance in what might be the nuances or intricacies of a specific neighborhood.
While the data produced by qualitative studies such as this are less objective than survey data with a
larger number of respondents, a strength of using qualitative key informant interviews include the
subtleties in community dynamics elicited from the interviews (Charzdon and Lott 2010:174). The
insight of key informants aided the design of our focus group questions.
Social cohesion is defined by De Jesus et al. (2010:1007) as the extent of connectedness and
solidarity among groups. Using survey data collected from twelve public housing communities in
low-income neighborhoods in Boston, the authors found that respondents reporting higher levels of
social cohesion considered their neighborhood to be safer than respondents who reported lower
levels of social cohesion (De Jesus et al. 2010). As a result of the increased perception of safety in


neighborhoods with higher social cohesion, the authors claim respondents will likely have lower
levels of anxiety and associated measures of poor health.
The physical environment is also an important factor in social well-being. The physical
condition of communities directly affects the well-being of its respondents (OBrien et al. 2012).
Physical infrastructure plays a role in transportation issues, which also affects sense of community.
For example, a good pedestrian environment can increase the psychological sense of community in a
neighborhood (Lund 2002).
Sampson (2003) discusses the influence of poverty on health outcomes across
neighborhoods. The author provides a convincing case for the powerful influence of neighborhood
context on individual health and wellbeing, citing studies from Northern California, and as far away
as Sweden, that found higher rates of poor health for respondents of low socioeconomic status, and
concentrated poverty areas. Both studies controlled for the variables of age, sex, education, smoking,
and body mass index. That such similar outcomes are found in neighborhoods across the globe
indicates that neighborhood poverty does truly impact the overall health of individuals living in that
neighborhood. Further testimony to the host of unique problems faced by areas of concentrated
poverty comes from a review of more than 40 academic studies of neighborhood effects spanning
a decade. Sampson et al. (2002) reiterate that factors such as concentrated poverty, affluence, and
stability remain highly predictive of numerous outcomes.
Another element that impacts the well-being of a neighborhood is the social bond. The
consensus is that social bonds are important (Chavis and Pretty 1999; Graber, Haywood, and Vosler
1996; Sampson et al. 2002). However, there is dissent about their degree of importance, and also
about whether strong or weak social bonds are more beneficial. Sampson et al. (2002) concluded
that weak social bonds, such as those which an individual would use to solicit a job referral, may be


quite constructive. In contrast, strong bonds may be related to more destructive behavior, such as
gang activity.
Building on the assets of a community is another important theme in the literature. Gary
Green and Anna Haines (2012:7) dene community development as a planned effort to build
assets that increase the capacity of respondents to improve their quality of life. The Grace Hill
Neighborhood model is one such approach, which focuses on marginalized communities and
devotes its efforts to fortifying an interdependent network built from community assets and
strengths. Graber et al. (1996:73) explain, underlying this empowerment approach to building
neighborhood community is a democratic and egalitarian philosophy of the worth and dignity of
every person, integrated with a neighbors helping neighbors view of healthy social relationships.
The assets perspective adopted by this neighborhood empowered its own residents to improve their
individual and communal well-being.
Our research of existing empirical research guided how we conducted the Community
Assessment in various ways. We sought to understand the existing and potential assets in each
neighborhood. We asked questions that might give us some qualitative data on social cohesion,
sense of community, social bonds, services, health, and the physical environment. We focused on
assessing lower income neighborhoods, and acknowledged that these boundaries may have been
arbitrary.

III. Conceptual Design
United Way of McLean County (UWMC) conducts periodic Community Assessments to
determine community needs and assets. UWMC conducted the 2014 Community Assessment in
response to the demographic changes and social issues that have surfaced in McLean County since
their last assessment in 2005. Specific issues for exploration included, employment, health care,
housing, safety, youth services and senior services. Results of the assessment will allow UWMC to
determine how to tailor their services to better serve the community. In addition, findings will be
distributed to the public, as well as various government and social service programs in McLean
County, allowing these organizations to improve upon their services and offer appropriate resources
to community members.
UWMC sent out 16,000 surveys targeting Normal, Bloomington and rural McLean County,
and led a series of key informant interviews and focus groups with key officials and populations to
gather data. Certain interviews and focus groups centered on specific populations or topics (i.e.
Youth Advocacy, Senior Services, Caregivers, Homelessness, and Latinos). Others sought to deduce
important themes in selected communities. Our cohort, the students in Sociology 477: Community
Project Design and Management (see Appendix K), was tasked with completing five key informant
interviews and four focus groups in low and moderate income neighborhoods and one rural
community. The geographic boundaries of these communities were determined according to U.S.
Census tracts of low and moderate income neighborhoods. The Stevenson Center cohort devised
the following research question to guide our portion of the assessment:
What factors have the strongest impact upon communal and individual well-being
in different neighborhoods in McLean County?


In this assessment, individual well-being was conceptualized to include such factors as a
persons health, economic status, and skills and education. The term health was taken to mean
physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects that impact individual longevity. Economic status
related to employment and the ability to financially provide for oneself and ones family. In skills
and education, we examined the availability and quality of vocational and educational programming
which may contribute to individual success.
Communal well-being is similar to the sense of community as described by McMillan (1967),
wherein residents share a mutual sense of belonging and responsibility to their neighbors and the
space around them (1967). Wilkinson (1991) makes the claim that the social well-being of the
community is largely dependent on the degree of its individual and ecological well-being. In our
research, communal well-being was conceptualized by the degree to which the following aspects
were present in a community: physical order, social services, civic engagement, safety, and economic
stability.
Physical order was taken to mean property conditions such as upkeep of houses, yards,
parks, streets, and sidewalks. Social services included a wide range of programs that may assist
respondents in procuring, for example, more affordable housing, food, and health care. Safety
was a multi-faceted term composed of criminal, environmental, political, and infrastructural threats
found within a community. Civic engagement was defined as opportunities to volunteer and assist
neighbors, whether formally or informally. Economic stability of a community denoted job
security and availability as well as businesses and services that are locally accessible (e.g. grocery
stores, hospitals, schools, etc.).

IV. Research Methods
Our research strategy was as follows: 1) identify geographical areas of focus, 2) pinpoint key
informants for each study site, 3) develop a key informant interview protocol, 4) schedule and
conduct key informant interviews, 5) analyze the information that was gathered from the key
informants for key themes, 6) use key informant data to create a focus group interview protocol, 7)
plan and recruit for focus groups, 8) conduct focus groups, 9) identify recurring themes and
conflicting themes, and 10) synthesize data into a final summative report.
The first step was to identify what areas would be the focus for our investigation.
Understanding that certain groups of respondents in McLean County may lack the forum through
which they feel empowered to be heard by the local government, our intention was to reach out to
areas potentially having the most need yet lacking the venues to express them. With this view,
UWMC chose to focus on areas with a residency of concentrated middle/low incomes and a rural
community. Using Census data, one rural town of McLean County and three neighborhoods in
Bloomington-Normal were chosen. In Bloomington, there were two neighborhoods--one middle-
income and one low-income. Whereas, in Normal, one low income neighborhood was identified,
and UWMC selected Lexington to represent the rural town (see Appendices G-J for maps).
After receiving the identified neighborhoods, we brainstormed the types of community
members that would be the most effective key informants. A key informant traditionally is an
individual from the selected community who helps researchers gain a sense of what questions to
probe in the larger focus groups. An effective key informant should have extensive ties to a
neighborhood, be a gatekeeper, a person of trust, and well-connected and informed of the assets and
needs within the community (Charzdon and Lott 2010). We broke our group of ten into five pairs,
and each pair was assigned a key informant in a respective area. Once potential key informants were


Key Informant Roles
City Agency Member
Normal
West Bloomington
East Bloomington
Lexington
Bloomington-Normal Government
Community Leader
Community Leader/ Stakeholder
Primary School Official
Local Government Representative
identified, each pair reached out to them to gauge interest. If the initial key informant contacted was
not available, another option was explored. Soon, a key informant was identified in each of the four
areas. A fifth key informant interview was conducted to gain a perspective for the Bloomington-
Normal area as a whole.
TABLE 1
Next, our cohort used the research question to guide the prompts for our key informants,
asking the same questions in every interview. We pinpointed how the informant interacted with the
community, how long they had been involved and in what capacity, a description of the community,
incentives and disincentives to living in the area, and the future goals of the community. (For an in
depth look at the key informant interview protocol, see Appendix C) The interviews took anywhere
from 45 to 90 minutes and each interview was conducted in person.
Our cohort then analyzed and reviewed the data gathered from key informant interviews to
construct the protocol for the focus groups. While some specific characteristics were noted across
the scope of interviews, in view of our research question, we chose to use the data from the
interviews as a directional guide rather than asking leading questions that might steer the participants
away from an area they might naturally feel was more important. The focus group questions
addressed strengths and weaknesses, problem solving tactics, available services, food and retail
accessibility, housing, civic engagement, and community goals. By keeping our semi-structured
questions general, we allowed room for the participants to direct the conversation towards topics
that were most pressing to them. We did, however, provide the facilitators with prompts for the
Neighborhood Number of Attendees
Normal 3
West Bloomington 17
East Bloomington 3
Lexington 5
Date
Focus Groups
October 23, 2013
October 22, 2013
October 7, 2013
October 16, 2013
questions should the participants be unable to initiate a topic organically (see Appendix E for the
specific Focus Group Protocol).
Once our focus group interview protocol was solidified, we worked with the key informants
to identify optimal locations, times, days, and recruitment methods for the focus groups in
conjunction with the different areas. Many of the key informants were influential with this piece of
the assessment. All focus groups were held on a weeknight around dinner-time, and as an incentive
to participate, we provided a meal. Recruitment methods ranged from attending a block party,
distributing fliers, word of mouth, online neighborhood forums, newspaper ads, to church
announcements. Table 2 provides an overview of focus group participation.
TABLE 2
The focus groups varied in attendance, but all were revealing. The pair of student researchers that
were assigned to the area facilitated the discussion. The facilitators role was to keep the
conversation focused while remaining sensitive to the discussion and allowing it room to thrive. The
rest of the cohort assisted with a variety of tasks: room set-up, food preparation, greeting, note
taking, and cleanup. Each focus group took a unique form, but all produced equally insightful
discussions.
Once the focus groups were completed, each team member analyzed the notes and
identified common and contrasting themes within and between them. Then we all came together to
discuss what we found. A grand list was created containing a collection of the findings of the team
members. This data was used to jumpstart the team in our report writing process.


V. Findings
Key Informant Interviews:
Bloomington-Normal Government Agency:
One of our key informants did not represent a specific neighborhood, but rather the larger
Bloomington-Normal community. This informant worked for a governmental social service agency,
and spoke of the challenges and opportunities for the agency and community as a whole.
Government funding cuts have strained the ability of the agency to meet community needs.
In this environment of decreased resources, the informant stressed the importance of cooperation
and collaboration between social service organizations. Working together, organizations can
decrease individual costs and increase efficiency across the social services spectrum.
Some of the problems identified were meeting the needs of youth and hard-to-serve
populations. The informant expressed a need for parental involvement in the lives of children in the
community and noted that many children received conflicting messages about conflict resolution
from parents. The informant went further, and identified a need for continued adult education,
connecting parents to themes being taught to their children.
The informant also mentioned the increased difficulty with placing and providing support to
some populations. Individuals with substance abuse and mental health issues, for example, are often
marginalized and ineligible for certain services. Consequently, these individuals often view jail as the
better alternative. The informant felt that restrictions placed on these populations limited the ability
of social service organizations in working with hard-to-serve individuals.
The informant offered many critiques of services, but also identified areas where
organizations had been successful. One area the informant viewed as favorable was the
improvements to public transportation. The number of routes, frequency, and schedule consistency
have seen considerable improvements in the past several years. Improved public transportation
increases access to resources for individuals with no other transportation options.
Lexington:
The key informant for Lexington was a government official. The informant projected a
strong sense of community, with respondents willing to help each other out. A strong school and
church system were seen as assets, and both aided and reinforced community support. The
informant took pride in the transparent government structure and spoke about an open system
where government officials send out publications with water bills, and everyone knows how to
contact their local leaders. In addition, the town council is open to all who wish to attend and
express their voice.
However, the informant mentioned that the economic downturn had taken its toll on
Lexington, and reported a need for financial help to aid in the redevelopment of downtown.
Lexington was called a bedroom community for Bloomington/Normal, in light of the observation
that many respondents work and shop outside of the town. The informant said this was a drain on
the local community and created a difficult environment for small businesses to flourish. It was
mentioned that Wertz beverage distribution recently approved a new warehouse in Lexington to
service central Illinois and it is expected to generate new local economic activity.
The informant also explained the spatial challenges the community faces when it attempts to
expand. Farmers with adjacent properties are often unable or unwilling to sell land to the town at a
reasonable price. A housing development of 24 homes was recently approved, although it is unclear
whether this will be sufficient to accommodate demand for housing. The informant also mentioned
that the community has not had a new apartment complex built since the 1970s, and this creates a
barrier for potential respondents. Young families do not have a way to try out the community before
purchasing a home.


Despite the difficult times, the key informant was proud of their community and its
resilience. They believed that one of the largest barriers for Lexington, and small rural communities
in general, was the need to reconcile community change with traditional values. According to the
informant, this would need to happen sooner than later for the community to survive.
East Bloomington:
The key informant for East Bloomington was an education official. While much of the
interview centered around the school system, the informant also discussed the greater community as
a whole. The informant believed that the local school is the community, and plays a pivotal role in
activities and programs, green spaces, and the facilitation of social services.
The greater community has changed significantly in recent years, and the informant believed
those changes had not all been positive. One noted change was the perceived impact of Section 8
housing, specifically, the nearby apartment complexes. While these have provided an affordable
housing alternative, the informant said the apartments have contributed to bike theft and an overall
increase in student tension. In addition, the community culture was negatively impacted by a murder
that occurred in the apartments.
A positive feature of the community was the frequent and open line of communication
between the school and parents. The informant said the active Parent Teacher Organization offered
a forum for parents to voice concerns and opinions. Through this communication, an issue was
identified with local basketball hoops that acted as a hangout for delinquent behavior and illicit
activity. The school decided that the hoops would be taken down during the weekend, but could
stay up during the week. While this arrangement was not seen as ideal by some, it was a best-case
compromise between parents, respondents, and faculty, the informant said.
Although the community is close to services, parks, and the YWCA, there is still room for
improvement, the informant stated. Several areas, such as child care and safety, were noted as


essential to community progress. Improved policing of troubled areas must be increased. Activities
and opportunities for young adults should be expanded to lessen illicit activities on the basketball
court. Above all, the informant stressed increased engagement with troubled families, specifically by
providing counseling services for children, as well as adult education and possibly GED classes for
parents.
Normal:
The key informant for Normal was an engaged community member active in the church.
The informant explained the strong sense of history and its importance for the community. The
neighborhood was said to be quiet and quaint. The informant felt there was a strong interest in
maintaining all aspects of the community, seeking to keep the neighborhood as it is.
The informant explained that housing turnover has been low, and new residents have not
felt welcomed to the neighborhood. The informant noted a high separation between class,
occupation, and income level. The community was said to be homogenous; the vast majority of
respondents being white.
The informant stated that low income housing had brought crime, however many residents
did not consider this housing to fall within the boundaries of their neighborhood. The informant
stressed the positive impact of municipal services, such as sanitation and garbage collection, as well
as excellent policing.
West Bloomington:
The key informant in the West Bloomington neighborhood was an official in a local non-
profit community organization. He spoke about a shift in the composition of the community;
residents were generally getting older, with newcomers being more racially diverse and younger than
the existing population. Many homes were older with a strong sense of history. The key informant
talked about the affordability of housing in West Bloomington; there is a mix of rentals and
homeownership. A strong sense of community was noted, enhanced by the presence of resources
like community gardens, book bikes, and the tool library.
One of the challenges the key informant raised was their ability to maintain contact with
residents who did not have a permanent method of communication. Concerns about aging
infrastructure, as well as a need for local retail establishments, were mentioned. Specifically, the
introduction of a grocery store was seen as a way to increase food access. Additionally, the loss of
off-street parking due to trash-collection was raised as an area that needed improvement. A lack of
meaningful activities for youth was an area for improvement. Youth involvement in gang activity,
violence and shootings was seen as a safety concern.
Focus Groups:
Utilizing information gathered from the key informant interviews, we derived an interview
protocol in order to conduct focus groups (Appendix E). We conducted four focus groups
throughout McLean County. Attendance ranged from 3 to 17 community members. Although these
neighborhoods were identified based on socioeconomic conditions, some participants did not
identify with the demographic description. Neighborhoods and communities were pre-determined
based on census data, but these general descriptions did not necessarily reflect specific attendants of
the focus groups. The information gathered represents the best interpretation of the data available to
researchers. These discussions generated several common themes.
Lexington:
Five community members, all white males or females of varying ages, were present at this
focus group.
Economics
Generally, the quality of local business has decreased. Day-time business in Lexington is
down. Most shopping is done in Bloomington-Normal, because the stores there have a wider


selection of goods and residents are already in town for work. The Wertz company is bringing hope
to the community, participants said, because it could increase the number of people who would live
and work in Lexington. Advantages and disadvantages of the economic activity it would bring were
discussed. Participants stated that negative effects would be outsiders coming to work in Lexington,
more fast food restaurants, and truck stops. Positive effects noted were the building of a hotel in
town, which would allow for more local jobs, increased diversity, and new apartments.
Education
Lexington high school has had a high graduation rate. Their AVC (area vocational center)
program has offered an alternative educational curriculum to those who are not interested in going
to college. Overall, students who decide to go to college do not feel very prepared, especially if they
participated in the AVC program.
Youth
Youth activities seemed to be limited in Lexington. Churches have served as a catalyst for
youth activity, but they do not appeal to everyone. Participants mentioned a need for job training,
especially for high school graduates. Basic financial literacy for young adults and youth, including
taxes and understanding benefits, would be very helpful.
Civic Engagement
Participants noted many opportunities to volunteer, mainly through church and school
sporting activities. Community churches have frequently organized and sponsored mission trips to
help identified communities in need. These churches have also coordinated food drives for victims
of hurricanes. In addition to direct action, respondents also felt that neighbors are willing to help
others in need. Younger neighbors helping older respondents rake leaves, shovel snow, and carry
groceries were all mentioned as neighborly activities.
Local government and services
Focus group participants generally had a favorable view of local government. Respondents
spoke of a positive relationship, with transparency highlighted as a benefit of living in a small
community. Participants viewed local leaders as approachable and available for citizens to voice
concerns. Local government has a good relationship with the public and interaction with police was
usually positive. One participant mentioned the unbiased nature of the police force, stating that
officers did not play favorites. In terms of local services, the participants said that there was only one
doctor in town and he was at capacity.
East Bloomington:
The East Bloomington community was identified as middle income. The focus group was
attended by three community residents, all white women of varying age.
Housing
Housing in the area was described as having low turnover, changing hands generally only in
the event of the death of a homeowner. The majority of housing is owned rather than rented. All
focus group participants saw the apartments as a place where a disproportionate amount of the
crime occurred and strongly expressed their concern about safety and a general lack of police
presence. Like West Bloomington, the respondents were concerned about the outside perception of
their neighborhood and the potential impact on property values.
Local services and opportunities for youth
The respondents spoke to the great recycling and garbage services provided by the city. In
this area there was also a perceived sense that neighbors helped neighbors. While they noted the
ease of access to businesses and the mall on Veterans Parkway, they noted a lack of local
neighborhood-based business. Additionally, respondents spoke about opportunities for youth being
on the other side of town. Opportunities for children of low-income respondents were limited, as
well as activities for all youth during the winter months. They noted that it was difficult to get into
and out of the neighborhood without a car. There was some concern about the bus route through
the neighborhood, and participants suggested a diversion along a higher traffic street. A pedestrian
friendly way of accessing Veterans Parkway was desired.


Supporting the information reported by the key informant, participants of the focus group
spoke very positively of the central role the schools played in the community. Respondents
specifically appreciated diversity in the student body population, noting several school sponsored
activities for multicultural engagement.
Normal:
The neighborhood identified in east Normal was part of a low-income census tract;
however, none of the respondents who we spoke with self-identified as low income. Respondents
saw their neighborhood as encompassing a much smaller area than what was outlined the Census
tract. Participants saw the target area as two separate neighborhoods. The three community
members who attended the focus group were diverse in their race, gender, and ideas. Two of the
respondents were a couple and moved into their home a few years ago, while one of the participants
was a long time resident.
Housing
In this area of the community, respondents were primarily homeowners. Housing was
described as being in high demand with low turnover. High housing prices were viewed as a
deterrent to young families, and the area had seen a decline in the number of kids. Nearby
apartments were seen as a threat to safety and the cause of area crime.
Community
Respondents identified a good amount of green space and great garbage collection service.
According to focus group participants, there was little sense of community and little interaction
between respondents. Newcomers were not always made to feel welcome and sometimes felt over-
policed. There was general consensus that increased communication between residents would
improve relationships and help to solve community problems more efficiently and justly. One
resident spoke about how there was no specific neighborhood identity or location she felt she


belonged to. There was also general agreement around a lack of local businesses nearby to get
basic necessities.
Participants spoke about how the churches are one part of the neighborhood that offered a
sense of community and youth programming. Churches were seen as key to the development of
community resources.
Security
A strong police presence was noticed by all participants, but its necessity was debated. Some
respondents felt over-policed either by members of law enforcement or public officials. One
resident noted some break-ins that had occurred and saw the increased police presence as a positive
development. In addition to the perceived risk the apartments brought, safety along the Constitution
Trail was also discussed as a concern.
West Bloomington:
The West Bloomington focus group had 17 community members in attendance with
diversity across age, race, and gender. Many participants were active in churches and local
organizations.
Housing
Participants spoke about the important historical background of the West Bloomington area
and the strength in its diversity. Respondents spoke favorably about the affordability of housing
being attractive to a diverse group of people, especially young couples. The care of rental properties
was one of the concerns raised by the group. Properties that were not well maintained caused some
concern among those in attendance. In addition to the care of rental properties, safety concerns
about vacant houses were also raised.
Sense of Community
More than any other neighborhood studied, West Bloomington was described as a place
with a neighborly sense of community. Respondents liked the parks, but wished to see more
gardens. The positive impacts of a diverse community were noted again. Respondents saw their
Nor. WB EB Lex.
High residential stability/ low turnover
Yard maintenance of neighbors a concern
Increased number of rental units desired
Housing
neighborhood as a good place to live, but noted that the external perception of their neighborhood
had a negative impact. Youth were often perceived as troublemakers by outsiders. The need for
reintegrating homeless and formerly incarcerated people back into society was discussed by several
respondents. The group offered a variety of suggestions for improving West Bloomington.
Respondents saw churches as a place that could provide services to homeless respondents or
opportunities to engage youth. Respondents also spoke favorably of fresh and healthy food
shopping options like the farmers market and Common Ground, however they wished to see a
grocery store in their neighborhood.
Relationship to the city of Bloomington
The community noted a slow response to infrastructure repair. One specific concern was the
inadequate care of the streets; potholes were covered with traffic cones and were not addressed for
months. There was a perception that many aldermen were not responsive to the needs of the
community. One area for improvement is a better solution for garbage pick-up that does not have
such a large impact on the availability of off-street parking for West Bloomington respondents.
Common themes:
Many themes emerged across communities, and very few needs were specific to one
neighborhood. Tables 3-7 provide summary overviews of the most common themes.
TABLE 3
Housing
Housing was a theme addressed in all neighborhoods. In Bloomington-Normal focus
groups, respondents expressed skepticism and at times outright dislike for apartment and rental


Nor. WB EB Lex.
Concern for safety of rental properties
Heavy police presence
Few reentry opportunities for formerly incarcerated
Safety
housing, which they perceived as unstable and renters were seen as less invested in the community.
In contrast, Lexington focus group participants expressed a desire to increase apartment and rental
housing options in their community. Lexington respondents saw a lack of rental options as a barrier
to potential community growth, limiting the ability for young families to try out the community
before purchasing a home. This rental versus owner dichotomy continued to reinforce participant
views on residential turnover and mobility.
In every focus group save West Bloomington, participants believed their community to have
low residential turnover. Even though many homes in the West Bloomington neighborhood were
owned rather than rented, often times they sat vacant. Vacant homes in West Bloomington were of
some concern to participants, as they often fell into disrepair. Deteriorating homes contribute to
falling property values of neighboring homes and the negative external perception of the
community. The issue of housing conditions also came up in East Bloomington, although the focus
was specifically on apartment complexes.
TABLE 4

Safety

In all focus groups save Lexington, rental units were believed to negatively affect overall
community safety. Rental units were seen as magnets for gang and drug activity, and often created
an environment where increased policing was necessary. West and East Bloomington would like to
see increased police presence as well as engagement, Lexington appeared satisfied with police
presence, and Normal felt that police presence was excessive in their community. Normal focus
Nor. WB EB Lex.
Negative perception of new residents from Chicago
Neighbors help neighbors
Desire for an increased sense of community
Sense of shared history
Concern about negative perception of community
Social Cohesion
group participants attributed high numbers of police officers to their proximity to college student
housing.
TABLE 5
Social Cohesion
A sense of community can manifest among respondents in a variety of ways, and indeed
each focus group had their own unique view. While Normal did not feel neighbors were overly
friendly to new respondents, all other focus groups explained that where they live, neighbors help
neighbors. Examples of this neighborly spirit were raking leaves, shoveling snow, and generally
supporting others when they fell on hard times. While they felt strong connections with neighbors,
both East and West Bloomington focus groups expressed concern for how outsiders may perceive
their community. Much of this centered on negative press, as well as the perception of high crime in
their communities. Only participants of the Normal focus group expressed an outright desire to
improve their sense of community. Normal participants wished for better communication and
interaction among neighbors, be it through social gatherings or community events.
Both West Bloomington and Lexington felt bonded by a sense of shared history. West
Bloomington built support under a banner of marginalization and what participants viewed as
exclusion from access to resources and government services. Through collective action, this has
improved over time. Lexington participants expressed a sense of shared history as part of a small
town. Participants were divided in opinion based on age as to whether this was a positive or
negative.


Nor. WB EB Lex.
Desire for an increase in local business
Churches serve as community hubs
Concern about responsiveness of local government
Excellent garbage collection
Lack of pedestrian access in commercial areas
Community Resources
Nor. WB EB Lex.
Lack of extracurricular options for youth
Desire for additional GED programs
Youth
TABLE 6

Youth Opportunities

Perhaps one of the most evident themes across all focus groups was the desire for an
increase in opportunities for youth. In some focus groups, participants indicated that opportunities
for youth may exist, though access is limited. Often youth may become active through school sports,
however this is not an option for all students. In East Bloomington, participants explained that
families with financial resources can overcome this obstacle, though often they have to travel to
other neighborhoods or communities for activities. There are limited options for lower income
youth without an interest in sports.
While most communities spoke positively of the local school system, some participants
expressed concern about post high school options for youth. In Lexington, participants spoke of a
lack of job opportunities. Furthermore, they believed that many recent graduates left unprepared for
college life. Participants in West Bloomington felt similarly and mentioned a need for additional
programs to bridge this gap. Both Lexington and West Bloomington expressed a desire for GED
courses.
TABLE 7



Community Resources

All focus groups spoke of a desire for increased local business presence. In Lexington, the
economic downturn has hurt local main street businesses, causing many to close. In addition, many
residents work outside of the community, leading them to shop near their place of work. This can be
detrimental to small community business owners as they seek to attract more clients. In other focus
groups, absence of local business was seen as a continuation of the national trend towards larger
brand name chain stores. In Normal, respondents explained that a lack of small businesses affected
their sense of community identity.
A lack of business presence can be seen as detrimental to attracting new residents. The
Lexington focus group mentioned the recent contract with Wertz beverage to build a distribution
warehouse. Participants felt this additional business would make the community more attractive to
potential respondents. In addition, this influx of money would create a demand for additional goods
and services, driving the generation of small businesses.
While Wertz is an example of a large contract generating opportunity in a community, this
effect can be repeated on a smaller scale within neighborhoods in Bloomington-Normal.
Encouraging an environment friendly to business can have positive effects and create employment
opportunities for respondents. Establishment of local grocers or farmers markets can vastly improve
access to quality food, something West Bloomington focus group participants mentioned as a
community resource.
Churches were universally present and active in all communities. Participants in all focus
groups emphasized the ability for church organizations to facilitate community projects. Church
congregations act as a hub for community activity, and bring respondents together.



Identifying Neighborhood leaders and holding Neighborhood forums
Empowering local respondents
Organizing community members to hold property owners accountable for upkeep and abiding by city codes.
Continue to reevaluate city codes and create new codes when necessary
Encourage local businesses to extend employment opportunities to participants of these programs
Base neighborhood strategies in the Geography of Opportunity Framework
Increasing awareness of current programs, such as the Next Step Initiative
Recruiting new stakeholders
Develop mentorships between older and younger youth generations
Host a Leadership Seminar or Youth Summit to develop youth leadership and identify youth concerns
Increase recreational opportunities and make recreational activities affordable and accessible
Partner with educational and business institutions
Improve transportation system
Encourage entrepreneurship
Increase communication and strengthen partnership
Improve response and follow-up towards neighborhood-specific needs
Rental property maintenance
Safety
Social Cohesion
Recommendations for Neighborhood Respondents
Work together towards fostering positive perception of neighborhoods and addressing neighborhood-
specific needs through forming community watch groups and holding public forums
Attracting local business
Relationship with local government
Safe Spaces for youth
Youth education and job preparation
Continue working with the West Bloomington Revitalizations Project to implement the
West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan
Neighborhoods can use the West Bloomington Revitalization Project and Neighborhood Plans to shape
their own initiatives for improving housing
Youth Opportunities
Strengthen partnerships between community and area businesses to increase access to educational and
job preparation programs
Community Resources
Transitioning renters into homeowners
Housing
Reentry of the formerly incarcerated
Community and stakeholder organizations create educational opportunities and job preparation programs
for formerly incarcerated individuals

VI. Project Recommendations
TABLE 8


The purpose of investigating the four McLean County neighborhoods was to identify
communal and individual well-being within each of these neighborhoods. The findings from this
portion of United Way of McLean Countys (UWMC) Community-Wide Assessment have led to the
following eight sections of recommendations:
Social Cohesion
Safety

Focus group participants expressed a safety concern regarding the apartments in the East
Bloomington neighborhood, indicating a lower level of social cohesion. We suggest holding a series
of neighborhood forums to discuss safety concerns, increasing social cohesion and general feeling of
safety. A priority within these forums should be discussing the root cause of the safety concern, and
what strategies might be taken to resolve the issue. Existing local organizations could help launch
the process by identifying a neighborhood leader to schedule, publicize, and host the forums. City
aldermen can be invited to participate in the discussion and share what measures the local
government is taking to address concerns. In addition to fostering social cohesion, forums can
improve residents awareness of local issues, facilitate discussion, and increase investment in the
community.
Forums have additional benefits as well. By virtue of their democratic nature, they serve to
empower local respondents with a greater feeling of control over events within their neighborhood.
As evidenced in An Empowerment Model for Building Neighborhood Community, one traditional way
communities cope with a lack of resources is by forming informal support networks with their
neighbors. Forums serve as a platform for developing such networks; they have been long-utilized as
a tactic applied to a myriad of community issues in a variety of different contexts. Building off the
forum tradition, Graber et. al (1996) explain that allowing respondents to set the agenda of what
issues they want to address is key to developing successful community aid programs. In this
manner, solutions emerge from within, rather than outside the community, and respondents are
involved in producing those solutions. Therefore, communities should work to strengthen existing
programs while allowing new neighborhood programs, such as forums, to emerge.
Rental Property Maintenance
Respondents in West Bloomington expressed concern over the maintenance of rental
properties. Property maintenance is critical for neighborhood social cohesion because visual cues
such as physical disorder have been found to impact perception of neighborhood safety (OBrien
2012). Due to quicker turnover rates, rental properties may be subject to more general wear and
tear. Therefore, rental properties typically require more frequent maintenance than owner-occupied
properties.
The West Bloomington Revitalization Project (WBRP) is working to implement their West
Bloomington Neighborhood Plan (2008) to address maintenance and a host of other neighborhood-
level issues. The plan outlines strategies and projects related to community greening, youth, safety
and well-being, economic development, and education, as well as recommendations for improving
community housing access, affordability and quality. According to the West Bloomington
Neighborhood Plan about 32 percent of...housing stock consists of owner-occupied dwelling units
while another 57.8 percent consists of rental-occupied units. (2008:8). The Plan suggests West
Bloomington work to develop mechanisms for holding property owners accountable for repairs and
upkeep. In line with WBRPs suggestion of bringing landlords and tenants to the table for a
discussion of rights and responsibilities (West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan 2008), we
recommend community members work together to hold each other accountable for complying with
existing city codes. Bloomington City Code SEC. 304.6, for example, states that all exterior walls
shall be free from holes, breaks and loose or rotting materials; and maintained weatherproof and
properly surface coated where required to prevent deterioration (City of Bloomington 2012).


Proper enforcement of this code would go a long way toward improving building maintenance and
increasing perceptions of safety in the neighborhood. As one key informant stated, financial
assistance for such repairs is already available through the WBRP: WBRP home repair projects only
require 10% of material costs from the homeowner; either in materials or their labor. But if repairs
require lots of skilled work, then that 10% may be more than what the homeowner can conceivably
do financially.
Considering the financial challenge, increased funding for WBRP, in the form of public or
private grants or donations, would allow the agency to conduct more home rehabilitation projects.
In addition, while developing strategies for increasing compliance with existing maintenance codes,
respondents could come together to discuss developing recommendations for new maintenance
codes.
The West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan was an ambitious undertaking, developed from
the cooperative efforts of hundreds of people and dozens of organizations, public and private. It
provides a vision statement for the community, discusses its history, current issues, and outlines a
plan for its future. We recommend similar plans could be developed for each of the other three
neighborhoods involved in this assessment. Each neighborhood plan should involve the
stakeholders unique to that community in its development. For guidance, these neighborhoods can
call upon the WBRP leaders to share their experiences from the West Bloomington Neighborhood
Plans development process.
Reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals

Another issue identified during a neighborhood focus group was finding ways to ease the
reentry process of formerly incarcerated individuals into the community. Formerly incarcerated
individuals are often marginalized from society and communities, affecting their ability to acquire a
job, participate in community events, and even access safe and affordable housing. Insufficient
programming for transitioning such individuals back into society can negatively impact social
cohesion and community identity. Furthermore, improving this transition will strengthen the
neighborhoods image within the larger community. Communities and stakeholder organizations can
create community-based educational opportunities and job preparation programs specifically for
residents who have been formerly incarcerated. Honing in on local economy, communities can
encourage local business to extend job opportunities to participants from these programs.
Moreover, encouraging local employment will create more opportunities for social interaction
between program participants and the community, fostering trust and improving community assets.
In the long term, this initiative can help decrease recidivism and increase residential stability within
the neighborhood.
Housing
Renter versus Owner-Occupied Homes
Another finding from the neighborhood focus groups was a disparity between renters and
homeowners. When analyzing the ratio of renters versus homeowners in a neighborhood, it is
important to include factors such as income and race. This can be accomplished through applying
the Geography of Opportunity Framework, which situates respondents within a context of place-
based opportunities that shape quality of life (Osypuk 2013:S62). Further, the framework
acknowledges, there are consistently large racial/ethnic disparities in access to neighborhoods of
high opportunity (Osypuk 2013:S62), as well as differential access to neighborhood resources by
race, social class, nativity, and other meaningful social stratification categories (Osypuk 2013:S63).
By considering the dynamics of income and race, this framework helps inform perceptions
of renters versus homeowners. Homeowners in the East Bloomington, West Bloomington, and
Normal neighborhoods had negative views towards renters. Apartments were associated with
decreased safety, sense of community, social cohesion, and general quality of life. These associations


correlate to both the ingrained perceptions and the physical appearance of these building structures.
For the neighborhood of West Bloomington, owner-occupied homes reported being more invested
in the well-being of the community. This finding is consistent with community development
literature, which suggests that stronger informal social ties improve neighborhood stability (Ross et
al. 2000). Homeowners who are long-term respondents of a community are more likely to have
developed strong, informal social ties.
Our recommendation lies in finding solutions to bridge the divide between homeowners and
renters. Therefore, considering the positive community-level impacts of homeownership, we
recommend increasing awareness of programs teaching financial literacy and money management,
which can assist renters who wish to become homeowners. One such program, Next Step, pairs
participants with a financial adviser who helps them develop strategies for meeting fiscal goals. The
program, located at Mid-Central Community Action in Bloomington and Heartland Community
College in Normal, is a partnership between Mid-Central Community Action, Heartland Community
College, UWMC and the University of Illinoiss College of Laws Community Preservation Clinic. In
addition to the financial coach, Next Step offers alternatives to pay-day loans and provides help for
avoiding mortgage foreclosures. According to a WGLT article, The UWMC will track and monitor
progress clients make in improving their credit scores, managing debt, obtaining a liveable income
and accumulating savings (WGLT FM 2013).
Recruiting new stakeholders, such banks and credit unions, to collaborate in this initiative
will strengthen its impact and sustainability. These stakeholders could work directly with potential
homeowners to improve access to credit and financial services. The Next Step initiative is designed
to help people achieve financial independence and stability. New or complementary programs within
Next Step could be focused specifically on helping renters transition into becoming homeowners.
As more renters make the transition, neighborhood stability and identity will increase.
The government can also have a role in this process. The Grattan Institute (2013) recently
released their Renovating Housing Policy report which showcases that the government provides
more policy and tax incentives to homeowners; this is another way the divide is perpetuated between
homeowners and renters. Although the divide increases with this type of government involvement,
it provides another incentive for renters to transition into being homeowners. Since according to the
Grattan Institute the divide is income-based and generational, it also shows the need for the
government to start enacting policies favorable for renters and for first-time homeowners.
Opportunities for youth
Education and job preparation
The following needs for youth were identified during the focus groups: opportunities in
education, workplace and economic opportunities, and safe spaces for youth to spend time within
their communities. By holding GED classes within Wayman Church, the West Bloomington
neighborhood has already begun to improve youth educational opportunities. As a way of facilitating
transitions for youths into the workforce, we recommend United Way to consider employing
additional community assets, such as State Farm and COUNTRY Financial Human Resource
representatives, to co-facilitate youth driven activities with community members. Furthermore,
peer-based empowerment initiatives could be effective in strengthening community assets and
human capital through educating community members. Additionally, UWMC could help
neighborhoods develop partnerships with businesses wanting to strengthen the community for their
employees. Younger generations in all neighborhoods could benefit from the creation of mentoring
programs between those who have already transitioned into the workforce and those entering high
school.


Safe Spaces
A sufficient safe space for youth was another need that surfaced in the focus groups. We
recommend neighborhoods hold a youth summit to identify opportunities within the community for
youth involvement. Just as focus groups and forums can offer democratic opportunities for
community development, this summit will promote democratic values among youth. Additionally,
the summit facilitates leadership development and could strengthen community social cohesion.
Local businesses could donate spaces and money to help fund the summit. Additional funding
sources could include parents, non-profit organizations, or local government.
Finally, as identified in the findings section, recreational opportunities for youth are often
expensive and require traveling outside the local neighborhood. Sports teams generate opportunities
for fostering leadership and teamwork. As seen in Lexington, a sports team can bring together
community, give community members a cause to rally around, and serve as a fountain of community
pride. We recommend expanding upon existing recreational activities and improving access,
affordability and quantity of programs. Additionally, creating local leagues can help make programs
accessible to children in all neighborhoods.
Community Resources
Attracting local businesses

Since all the neighborhoods expressed a desire for a variety of new local businesses, we
developed recommendations pertaining to this topic. For ideas, we referenced the West
Bloomington Neighborhood Plan (2008), which makes several recommendations related to
economic development. These include partnering with existing educational and business institutions
to promote new business start-ups and local cooperative enterprises (2008:26), expanding public
transportation services, and enhancing workforce development programming (2008:27). These
recommendations, though directed toward West Bloomington, are applicable to every neighborhood
studied.
There are numerous barriers to starting a new business. In addition to capital needs,
launching a commercial enterprise requires knowledge of how to acquire the necessary permits,
become compliant with existing codes, and an ability to navigate government regulations. These
barriers function to deter would-be job creators and service providers from launching commercial
enterprises. As suggested in the West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan (2008), communities could
partner with area educational institutions, such as Illinois State University, Heartland Community
College, and Illinois Wesleyan University, to provide training for entrepreneurs on how to navigate
the forest of permits, codes, and regulations associated with launching a new enterprise. In addition,
the Economic Development Council of the Bloomington-Normal area could provide training on
how to secure the capital needs to start a business.
Accessibility is a primary issue for local businesses. Residents need quick, affordable
transportation to the places where they work and shop. Considering this, the West Bloomington
Neighborhood Plan (2008) recommends exploring the possibility of extending the operating hours
of Connect Transit, as well as adding service on Sundays. Additionally, the Plan calls for expanding
bike paths. These paths will encourage biking as a means for transportation, potentially decrease
traffic congestion, reduce air pollutants from driving, and increase access to businesses, parks and
other community spaces. We support these recommendations, not only as strategies for attracting
local businesses, but for making communities more livable.
By creating a large pool of skilled job applicants, enhancing workforce development
programming increases the likelihood businesses will locate in a particular neighborhood. The West
Bloomington Neighborhood Plan calls for creating a center for career counseling services, classes
on financial literacy, information on starting a business, neighborhood marketing information,
information on apprenticeship programs, resume workshops, job fairs and free or low-cost skills-
based courses (i.e. on information technology, public speaking, technical writing, etc.) (2008:27).
Such a center could function as a liaison between job-seekers, potential businesses, and
entrepreneurs. Neighborhoods should explore the possibility of opening such a Center as is outlined
in the Plan.
Relationship with Local Government
Lastly, focus groups identified the importance of local government presence within the
neighborhoods. As previously mentioned in the findings, there are services that are working well,
such as the high standard of garbage and recycling collection reflected within the focus groups held
in Normal and Bloomington. Additionally, the Lexington focus group had a favorable view of their
municipality, highlighting transparency and a positive relationship with government as being the
benefits of a small community. Yet, the government could add more initiatives and more focus in
serving their respective communities. In general, we recommend there be increased communication
and partnership between the local government and their respective neighborhoods. As evidenced in
Lexington, this would lead to a more positive relationship and greater transparency.
A concern voiced in the West and East Bloomington focus groups was a negative perception
of their communities. In West Bloomington, for example, a participant stressed the need to
rebrand the image of the neighborhood. The local government could work with these
neighborhoods to develop rebranding and other strategies that present them in a more positive way.
A conversation on this topic could be facilitated through public forums. As part of a rebranding, the
government could spearhead housing and safety initiatives. In regards to housing, neighborhoods
could work with municipalities to address maintenance and code enforcement issues. According to
the West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan (2008), one way the city codes can be better
implemented is through community watch groups and the local government working together. If


there are no community watch groups, we recommend that they be formed. These groups can be
utilized in regularly reporting code violations to the city or the township. These groups could also
report residential vacancies, such as those reported in the West Bloomington focus group. Further,
in regards to safety, there were mixed viewpoints on the need for police presence within certain
neighborhoods. Specifically, the Normal neighborhood viewed a strong police presence within their
neighborhood to be unnecessary. On the other hand, the East Bloomington neighborhood
expressed the need for increased police presence. This is another example of where greater
communication between the local government and the neighborhoods could assist municipalities in
better serving their neighborhoods. Again, a public forum within individual communities could
prove useful in gathering input and in starting conversations on these issues.
Another concern regarded the responsiveness of the local government. Specifically in West
Bloomington, there was concern about the City of Bloomingtons slow response to infrastructure
repair. According to the focus group participants, there is need to improve the maintenance of both
sidewalks and streets. Across the Normal and Bloomington focus groups, there were mixed
reactions towards the aldermen serving these areas. While there were positive remarks on quick
responses to concerns and needs, this was not consistent for all the aldermen. This leads us to
recommend that there be increased communication and interaction between each alderman and
their respective area. This will enable aldermen to better meet the needs of citizens, as well as form
stronger relationships with their respective area. Additionally, we recommend repairing and
maintaining infrastructure to improve neighborhood perception, make it more inviting for new
residents, as well as incentivize residents to upkeep their neighborhood.
Additionally, the East Bloomington focus group expressed concerns about government
response to transportation-related complaints. There was a general consensus that the local
government was not meeting their needs in this regard. Specifically, participants had concerns
regarding the accessibility of transportation, as well as the bus routes. In regards to accessibility,
participants reported difficulty leaving the neighborhood if they do not own or have access to a
vehicle. The main reason cited for this was the lack of pedestrian accessibility on Veterans Parkway.
We recommend finding solutions to make Veterans Parkway more pedestrian-friendly. One way to
do this would be to add sidewalks, cross lights, and/or bike paths. With the topic of bus routes,
there was dissatisfaction in how the route went right in front of Stevenson Elementary School.
There were passionate concerns about the speed of the bus and the safety of children crossing the
street. We recommend either placing a crossing guard to assist children in crossing the street or to
divert this bus route. In general, another recommendation would be to follow-through on complaint
responses to see if respondents remain dissatisfied.


VII. Recommendations for Future Assessments and Research

Throughout the key-informant interview and focus group process, a few areas for
improvement in the process became evident. First, a consistent and standardized form of note
taking amongst note takers would strengthen the validity of gathered data. One method by which to
achieve this is to tape or video record the focus groups and interviews. Another is by requiring note
takers to attempt to capture the verbatim of the interview or focus group, rather than simply
summarizing. Additionally, rather than the method of each note-taker focusing on a few individuals,
note takers should focus on the group as a whole. This would allow for cross-analysis of the notes,
thereby increasing validity of the data. Lastly, standardized notes would allow researchers to verify
the reliability of the questions asked during the focus groups, improving the overall assessment tool
for the United Way of McLean County.
In addition, since there are diverse income levels existing within the identified neighborhood
areas of research, we recommend conducting more focus groups to capture this variety of
demographics. On a related note, rather than relying solely on Census data, neighborhood
respondents can be utilized in the identification of neighborhood boundaries. Another
recommendation pertaining to focus groups is not to rely as heavily on key informants for recruiting
focus group participants, as this technique limits the diversity of participants to individuals already
connected to the key informant, and may function to limit input to a specific group, rather than the
neighborhood as a whole. This concern also applies to having key informants attend the focus
groups. This may decrease the validity of the gathered data through the over-representation of a few
voices. However, key informants are an important resource and should still be utilized. The concern
pertains to the extent of utilization. Additionally, survey data acquired by UWMC for the


Community Assessment could be used in conjunction with the Census data in identifying and
defining neighborhood boundaries.
Further, there was inconsistent communication between UWMC and the Illinois State
University student researchers. To address this, we recommend methods for better communication
between the two groups. For example, UWMC and the student researchers had different questions
for their focus groups. Without having standard questions across all focus groups within the
Community Assessment, some ability to cross-reference findings between the focus groups
conducted by UWMC and the student researchers is lost. Also, improved communication could
have facilitated student researchers taking advantage of the resources UWMC used in recruiting and
in planning their focus groups. For example, UWMC submitted an article in the Pantagraph, which
detailed focus groups they were hosting. With better communication, the focus groups planned by
student researchers could be included in the Pantagraph article.
For future research, we first suggest addressing the diversity of McLean County residents
through hosting a few more different categories of focus groups. These additional groups include
focus groups for respondents working on/have not completed their GED and for women.
Additionally, rather than focusing on one rural neighborhood, Lexington, focusing on two rural
areas would provide more validity of data being gathered for the category of rural areas surrounding
McLean County. Also, holding repeated focus groups within neighborhoods would help provide a
more complete picture of these neighborhoods. Not only would there be greater potential for all
neighborhood demographics to be represented, there would also be increased opportunity to cross-
analyze data, strengthening the validity of the findings.
Further, we suggest there be a secure online forum or survey which neighborhood
respondents who are unable to attend the focus group can use to share information about their
neighborhood. To remain consistent, the same questions used in the focus group would be shared in
the online forum or survey. Also, more incentives, such as a raffle, could be offered to respondents
for participating within their neighborhood focus groups. We recommend that there could be
improved clarification on how the assessment data will be utilized and on the potential results and
consequences. Lastly, for future research, we suggest neighborhood residents map their
neighborhoods and for this information be used in conjunction with survey data and Census data in
determining neighborhood boundaries.


VIII. Limitations of the Study
A primary limitation was time. The timeframe for this assessment was limited to three weeks
for recruiting and conducting four focus groups. The time constraints under which we conducted
our research did not allow us to attract a significant number of participants from the neighborhoods
analyzed. This affected our ability to speak to the broader population and to address the
demographics of the neighborhood, potentially limiting the information collected. Additionally, due
to time constraints, the methods of recruiting for focus groups were limited. Time constraints
restricted researchers ability to develop relationships with the neighborhood members that would
have enabled more effective, diverse, and complete participation in focus groups.
A second limitation occurred during the identification of neighborhoods. Although Income
Census data was used to identify areas of investigation, the income levels represented did not reflect
both demographics within each neighborhood and the focus group participants perceptions of the
neighborhood. This led researchers to conclude that more than one neighborhood resides within the
identified areas of study. Therefore, the Census data creates an ambiguous and irrelevant boundary
of analysis. Sampson et al. (2002) touch upon issues around neighborhoods having geographic
boundaries established by the Census Bureau. Since these boundaries ignore the social networks
between neighbors, the authors stress that they are not ideal for policy development and research.
Illinois State University researchers were unfamiliar with the areas of analysis. This was a
third limitation for the Community Assessment. The weak relationship between ISU researchers and
the researched neighborhoods was reflected both in the heavy reliance on key informants for
recruitment and in the general recruitment and attendance of the focus groups. Additionally, in some
of the focus groups, heavy reliance on key informants for recruiting led to the limitation of key
informants influencing the demographic of the attendees, as well as leading to the key informants


themselves attending the focus groups. When key informants attended the focus groups, this
potentially limited responses, drove focus groups in certain directions, and inflated and repeated
gathered data. In contrast, there was also failure in utilizing all the key informants, specifically the
additional contact from the Bloomington-Normal City Agency Member. This specific key informant
could have been an additional asset for recruiting, and United Way could have also benefited from
this contact.
In closing, this study provides supplemental data to support the broader 2014 United Way
Community Assessment. Although there are limitations to the generalizability of this data, the
findings provide a more in-depth examination of assets and needs at a neighborhood level.
Combined with the larger 2014 assessment, this data can be beneficial to improving social and
community well-being for future McLean County residents.

IX. References
Charzdon, Scott A. and Stephanie Lott. 2010. "Ready for Engagement: Using Key Informant
Interviews to Measure Community Social Capacity." Journal of the Community Development
Society 41(2): 156-175.
Chavis, David M. and Grace M.H. Pretty. 1999. Sense of Community: Advances in Measurement
and Application. Journal of Community Psychology 27(6): 635-642.
City of Bloomington. 2012. City Code. Bloomington, IL: City of Bloomington. Retrieved
November 22, 2013 (http://cityblm.org/index.aspx?page=262). In-text citation: (City of
Bloomington 2012)
Cohen, Jeremy, Charles Norton, Daniel O'Brien, and David Wilson. 2012. Local Adaptation in
Community Perception: How Background Impacts Judgments of Neighborhood Safety.
Environment and Behavior 1-28.
De Jesus, Maria, Elaine Puleo, Rachel Shelton, and Karen Emmons. 2010. Associations Between
Perceived Social Environment and Neighborhood Safety: Health Implications. Health &
Place 16: 1007-1013.
Geis, Karlyn, John Reynolds, and Catherine Ross. 2000. The Contingent Meaning of
Neighborhood Stability for respondents' Psychological Well-Being. American Sociological
Review 65(4): 581-597.
Graber, Helen V., Sally Haywood, and Nancy R. Vosler. 1996. An Empowerment Model for
Building Community: Grace Hill Neighborhood Services. Journal of Progressive Human
Services 7(2): 63-76.
Grattan Institute. 2013. Renovating Housing Policy. Victoria, Australia: Grattan Institute.
Retrieved November 22, 2013 (http://grattan.edu.au/publications/reports/post/renovating-
housing-policy/). In-text citation: (Grattan Institute 2013)
Green, G. P., & A. Haines. 2012. Asset Building & Community Development. Thousand Oaks, CA:
Sage.
Lund, Hollie. 2002. Pedestrian Environments and Sense of Community. Journal of Planning
Education and Research 21: 301-312.
Mallach, Alan. 2008. Managing Neighborhood Change: A Framework for Sustainable and
Equitable Revitalization." Montclair, NJ: National Housing Institute.
McMillan, D. W., and D.M. Chavis. 1986. Sense of Community: A Definition and Theory. Journal
of Community Psychology 14(1): 6-23.


Osypuk, T.L. 2013. Future Research Directions for Understanding Neighborhood Contributions to
Health Disparities. Revue d'pidmiologie et de Sant Publique 61S:S61-S68.

Sampson, Robert J. 2003. The Neighborhood Context of Well-Being. Perspectives in Biology and
Medicine 46(3): 53-64.

Sampson, Robert J., Jeffrey D. Morenoff, and Thomas Gannon-Rowley. 2002. Assessing
Neighborhood Effects: Social Processes and New Directions in Research.Annual Review
of Sociology 28: 443-478.

West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan. 2008. Retrieved November 22, 2013
(http://lilt.ilstu.edu/gmklass/pos233/reports/West%20Bloomington%20QOL%20Plan%2011.18.0
8.pdf). In-text citation: (West Bloomington Neighborhood Plan 2008)

WGLT FM. 2013. Community One-Stop Shop Toward Financial Independence Formed.
Normal, IL: WGLT FM. Retrieved November 22, 2013
(http://wglt.org/wireready/news/2013/09/05773_NextStep1_140705.shtml). In-text
citation: (WGLT FM 2013)

Wilkinson, Kenneth P. 1991. The Community in Rural America. Middleton, Wisconsin: Social
Ecology Press.

X. APPENDICES
Appendix A-Key Informant Contact Script
SOA 477, Fall 2013
Making Contact with Potential Key Informant Interviewees:
Hello, my name is __________________________, and I am a graduate student with the
Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development at Illinois State University.
In collaboration with the United Way, we are working on an assessment of neighborhood well-being
and related social service needs within McLean County. We are focusing on low income
neighborhoods, moderate income neighborhoods, and rural neighborhoods as part of our research.
Your name was identified with the help of the United Way as someone who has involvement with a
broader range of social services and overall well-being issues in at least one of these types of
neighborhoods. I am hoping that you will be willing to talk to us about your perspectives on the
broader issues of neighborhood well-being and related social services to help us better identify areas
of need and areas for improvement. This information will be used to help us better direct the
questions in our focus groups with neighborhood respondents, which will be conducted in mid-
October.
I would like to schedule a time and location that is convenient for you to discuss these issues a bit
more in person. It is important for us to speak directly with key stakeholders such as yourself that
have direct knowledge and experience with these issues, to better understand what could be
improved in the future. Your contribution and perspectives are vital to helping us to better
understand the issues and possible ways that the United Way and its partners can better serve the
respondents of McLean County. The interview should last between 45-60 minutes. Is there a time
in the next week that would work for you?
**Please confirm the location to meet and then thank them for their time.
Date:______________________________
Time:______________________________
Location:_______________________________________________________
Appendix B-Key Informant Interview Consent Form
In collaboration with the United Way, a group of Graduate Students from the Stevenson Center for
Community and Economic Development is working on a community assessment of neighborhood
well-being and related social service needs within McLean County. We are focusing on low income
As part of this assessment, we are conducting interviews with key stakeholders that have some
knowledge of the different neighborhoods that we are focusing on to gain a better understanding of
the current state of various social services and overall well-being issues in these types of
neighborhoods. Your perspectives on the broader issues of neighborhood well-being and related
social services will help us to better identify areas of need and areas for improvement.
The interview will last between 45-60 minutes. The questions will focus on getting a better
understanding of the current assets and needs as related to quality of life in the various
neighborhoods. Results from these interviews will be used to develop focus group questions for
respondents to better understand the situation from their perspective. The final results from this
project will also be provided to the United Way to inform and guide their county-wide Community
Assessment.
Your participation in completely voluntary and all reasonable efforts will be made to maintain
confidentiality. However, your name will not be associated with the data collected and only
aggregate/group data will be reported. Only those directly involved with the project will have access
to interview notes. Participation does not involve any specific benefits beyond helping to improve
the sustainability and well-being of your neighborhood. If you choose not to participate or choose
to discontinue your participation, there will be no penalty. If you have any questions about the
study or need any additional information, please contact Dr. Joan Brehm, Illinois State University,
tel: 309-438-7177, email: jmbrehm@ilstu.edu. If you have questions about participant research
rights, please contact Illinois State Universitys Research Ethics and Compliance Office at (309) 438-
2520.
Signature:_________________________________ Date:__________________________
Thank you for your time and participation.
Appendix C-Key Informant Interview Protocol
Introduce the Project: In collaboration with the United Way, a group of Graduate Students from the
Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development is working on a community
assessment of neighborhood well-being and related social service needs within McLean County. We
are focusing on low income neighborhoods, moderate income neighborhoods, and rural
neighborhoods as part of our research. As part of this assessment, we are conducting interviews
with key stakeholders that have some knowledge of the different neighborhoods that we are
focusing on to gain a better understanding of the current state of various social services and overall
well-being issues in these types of neighborhoods. Your perspectives on the broader issues of
neighborhood well-being and related social services will help us to better identify areas of need and
areas for improvement.
Guiding Research Question:
What factors have the strongest impact upon communal and individual well-being in different
neighborhoods in McLean County?
Interview Protocol
1. Tell me about yourself and your organization?
a. How are you involved in your community/neighborhood?
b. How long have you lived here or your organization has worked here?
c. How long have you been familiar with the community/neighborhood?
2. Describe your community/neighborhood?
a. What is your community/neighborhood known for?
b. How have things changed in the last 10 years?
3. What are some reasons that respondents might consider living in this
community/neighborhood?
a. Why not in this neighborhood?
4. What are some strengths in your community/neighborhood? Weaknesses in your
a. What are some potential resources that have not yet been developed for your
5. What are some needs in your community/neighborhood?
6. What are some future goals for your community/neighborhood?
a. Neighborhood vs. organization?
b. How could you achieve them?
c. Current assets? Potential assets?
d. What are some barriers to achieving your goals?
Thank you for your time. Your knowledge and insights will be very helpful to us.
Our next step will be to conduct a focus group in this neighborhood. Do you have any suggestions
for where we might hold the focus group that would be convenient to respondents? Who might be
helpful contacts for recruitment of neighborhood respondents?
We expect to complete this phase of our work by early December. At that time we will have a
public presentation of the findings and you are more than welcome to attend. We will also be
preparing a written report of the findings and would be happy to share a copy with you if you would
like. Would you like to receive a copy of the report?
Thank you again.
Appendix D-Focus Group Consent Form
In collaboration with the United Way, a group of Graduate Students from the Stevenson Center for
Community and Economic Development is working on a Community Assessment of neighborhood
well-being and related social service needs within McLean County. We are focusing on low income
As part of this assessment, we are conducting focus groups with neighborhood respondents in
different neighborhoods throughout McLean County to gain a better understanding of the current
state of various social services and overall well-being issues in these types of neighborhoods. Your
perspectives on the broader issues of neighborhood well-being and related social services will help
us to better identify areas of need and areas for improvement.
The focus group will last between 60-90 minutes. The questions will focus on getting a better
neighborhoods. Results from this focus group will be provided to the United Way to inform and
guide their county-wide Community Assessment.
Your participation in completely voluntary and all reasonable efforts will be made to maintain
confidentiality. Since the focus group session takes place in a group setting and others are privy to
your responses, we cannot guarantee absolute confidentiality. However, your name will not be
associated with the data collected and only group data will be reported. Only those directly involved
with the project will have access to focus group notes. Participation does not involve any other
specific risks other than perhaps some discomfort when revealing personal feelings in the focus
group setting. Participation does not involve any specific benefits beyond helping to improve the
sustainability and well-being of your neighborhood. If you choose not to participate or choose to
discontinue your participation, there will be no penalty. If you have any questions about the study
or need any additional information, please contact Dr. Joan Brehm, Illinois State University, tel: 309-
438-7177, email: jmbrehm@ilstu.edu. If you have questions about participant research rights, please
contact Illinois State Universitys Research Ethics and Compliance Office at (309) 438-2520.
Signature:_________________________________ Date:__________________________
Thank you for your time and participation.
Appendix E-Focus Group Interview Protocol
Introduction:
Welcome! Thank you for taking time to participate in the discussion this evening.
We are Graduate Students from the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development
at Illinois State University. We are working in collaboration with the United Way to help carry out a
Community Assessment of neighborhood well-being and related social service needs within McLean
County. To assist with this assessment, we are conducting focus groups with a diversity of
neighborhood respondents in different neighborhoods throughout McLean County to gain a better
understanding of the current state of various social services and overall well-being issues in these
types of neighborhoods. Your perspectives on the broader issues of neighborhood well-being and
related social services will help United Way to better identify areas of need and areas for
improvement.
The focus group will last between 60-90 minutes. The questions will focus on getting a better
neighborhoods. Results from this focus group will be provided to the United Way to inform and
guide their county-wide Community Assessment.
Ground Rules:
We will do our best to keep all information in this discussion confidential. No identifying
information or names will be used in any reports or documents. Please be respectful of diverse
viewpoints.
Does anyone have any questions before we begin?
Interview Protocol
1. How would you describe your neighborhood (town) to a new resident?
a. How would you define your neighborhood?
b. Geographically, socially, etc???
2. What are the strengths of your neighborhood (town)?
3. Are there any weaknesses in your neighborhood (town)? If so, can you tell us about them?
4. Are there things you would like to improve in your neighborhood (town)? If so, can you tell us
about them?
Health services
Infrastructure
Schools
Public services
Green space
Community organizations
Social interaction
Safety
Job opportunities Youth options/services
5. How are problems solved in your neighborhood (town)?
a. Describe your neighborhoods relationship with the local government.
b. Describe your neighborhoods relationship with local NGOs/community organizations.
6. Describe for us what services you use in your neighborhood (town)?
a. Brainstorm a list
b. YWCA specifically for moderate income neighborhood.
c. Describe the services that are available?
d. Why might someone use or not use a local service?
e. Define services.garbage collection, health clinics, public transportation, police, local businesses,
infrastructure, schools, community organizations
7. Where to you make the majority of your purchases?
a. Stores and service providers?
b. Inside or outside of the community/neighborhood?
8. Can you tell us about the housing in your neighborhood (town)?
a. Affordability
b. Turnover
c. Homeowner vs. renter
d. Physical condition
9. Can you tell us about opportunities for participation or volunteering in your neighborhood
(town)?
10.What would you like to see addressed in your neighborhood (town) over the next five years?
Appendix F- Marketing Materials: Sample Flier
Appendix G- East Bloomingtonmap powered by Google and Scribble Maps
Appendix H-West Bloomingtonmap powered by Google and Scribble Maps
Appendix I- Normal-map powered by Google and Scribble Maps


Appendix JLexingtonmap powered by Google and Scribble Maps

Appendix K- Targeted Advisory Council Members
Advocate BroMenn Medical Center
http://www.advocatehealth.com/bromenn/mission
Mission: Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, a 221-bed full service, not-for-profit hospital located
in Normal, IL, is one of the most advanced acute care facilities in central Illionis. The medical
centers services encompass a wide range of acute, outpatient, rehabilitative and preventative health
care. The mission of Advocate Health Care is to serve the health needs of individuals, families,
communities through a wholistic philosophy rooted in our fundamental understanding of human
beings as created in the image of God.
Bloomington Township
www.townships.toi.org/CITYOFBLOOMINGTONTOWNSHIP
The Bloomington Township is responsible for General Assistance, Property Assessment, Road and
Bridge Maintenance.
Bloomington Public School District 87
http://www.district87.org/pages/Bloomington_School_District_87
Mission: The educational mission of Bloomington Public Schools is to challenge, support, and
inspire students to learn and achieve in their highest potential in order to become productive citizens
constructive citizen and lifelong learners. The emphasis of the educational program is the individual
student.
Busey Bank
http://www.busey.com/home/buseypromise/heritage
History and Heritage: At Busey, a community organization, committed to helping customers and
communities dreams come true. Since we first opened our doors in 1868, we have built on a
tradition of close relationships and broad financial capabilities. Looking back, weve come a long
way in 145years, yet the core values-dedicated associates, strong customer partnerships and thriving
communities-instilled years ago are still the cornerstones of Busey.
City of Bloomington
http://www.cityblm.org/index.aspx?page=241
The City government is a respected agency dedicated to serving the public. The City has a
commitment to excellence. The City of Bloomington, originally named Blooming Grove
represents a community that is friendly and safe and values progress and growth.
Commerce Bank
http://www.commercebank.com/about/social-responsibility/involvement.asp
Community Involvement: At Commerce Bank, giving back to the community is ingrained in our
culture. We are only as strong as the community in which we do business. In everything we do, we
strive to be a good corporate citizen and encourage all employees to volunteer for the charities of
their choice. Our commitment to the community is evident in a variety of ways: Charitable Giving,
Employee Volunteer Efforts, Community Recognition Awards, Commerce Commendations, and
Management Involvement.
COUNTRY Financial
http://www.countryfinancial.com/SiteController?url=/whyChooseCountry/countryInYourCommu
nity
COUNTRY in your community: COUNTRY strengthens communities by supporting local
agriculture through Farmers Markets and hosting sporting events for youth and famliy to enjoy.
From financial education programs to Relay for Life, we support non-profit organizations that help
communities thrive. Building houses, serving dinners at shelters and helping in an emergency are a
few of the we volunteer alongside our neighbors.
East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging
www.eciaaa.org
Mission: "We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Older Americans and their families
by providing information about and access to a variety of services in their community in the 16
counties of East Central Illinois"
Economic Development Council
http://www.bnbiz.org/Home.aspx
Mission: The EDC of Bloomington-Normal grows the local economy by assisting with local
business expansion, recruiting new businesses and companies to the area, and encouraging the next
wave of entrepreneurs to establish their business here.
Heartland Bank and Trust Company
http://www.hbtbank.com/about-heartland-bank
About: Heartland Bank and Trust is widely recognized as one of the strongest and most
progressive banks in the area. We're a locally owned community bank whose roots are right here in
the heartland. The Drake family, who came to Central Illinois in 1852, has been in banking for over
80 years. With the third generation of the family taking an active role in the banking business, we
continue this tradition.
Illinois Prairie Community Foundation
http://www.ilprairiecf.org/vision-mission/
Mission: To engage and assist individuals in sharing their charitable gifts .To receive, invest and
manage contributions, building permanent funds for the needs of our area (McLean, Livingston,
DeWitt, and Logan Counties and adjacent areas in Tazewell, Woodford, LaSalle, Ford and Piatt
Counties). To provide donors flexible, convenient giving option.To be a voice in identifying
community needs and concerns. To be a trusted resource and catalyst for positive change.
McLean County Government
http://www.mcleancountyil.gov/
http://health.mcleancountyil.gov/
Purpose: The purpose of the McLean County Health Department is to fulfill the public interest in
assuring conditions conducive to good health and providing leadership in promoting and protecting
the health of county respondents. In pursuit of our mission, we (1)assess and analyze health
conditions, (2)assure access to personal health care services, (3)conduct programs in accordance with


Illinois Department of Public Health certification standards for local health departments,
(4)coordinate and plan with other entities for a comprehensive community health system,(5)develop
local health policies , (6)enforce state laws and local ordinances pertaining to health where
applicable, (7)minimize the adverse impact of diseases and disabilities, and (8)prevent and control
disease through health promotion, early intervention, and health protection.

Multicultural Leadership Program
http://public.bn-mclp.org/
Mission: To develop diverse leaders. They aim: (1) to prepare skilled, informed individuals for
leadership positions in public, private, educational, political and non-profit sectors; (2) to foster
leadership diversity through community welfare and civic participation; (3)to promote inter-
community unity.

Normal Township
http://www.normaltownship.org/index.php
Mission: There are three main functions of township government; the assessment function, the
Township supervisor's function, and the road and highway function are all directed by elected
officials. In addition, the Supervisor's office, in conjunction with the Town of Normal, has
established a Seniors' Program that serves that portion of our population with many programs and
activities.

OSF St. Joseph Medical Center
http://www.osfstjoseph.org/
Since 1880, OSF St. Joseph Medical Center has provided comprehensive health care services to the
Bloomington-Normal community. As part of OSF Healthcare System, OSF St. Joseph Medical
Center staff strives to serve every patient, every time with the greatest care and love.

PATH
http://www.pathcrisis.org/
Our agency began in 1971 and has grown as a community resource people turn to when they are
seeking help in human services. We answer over 90,000 calls annually through our 24/7 2-1-1/crisis
hotline. PATH also provides critical services for people age 60 and older and their caregivers, and
intervention for people who are experiencing homelessness.

Regional Office of Education
http://www.roe17.org/home
An advocate for education by providing positive leadership, coordinating and delivering state and
local services, and disseminating information for educators, school districts, and the community.

State Farm Insurance Companies
http://www.statefarm.com/aboutus/community/development/development.asp
Strong neighborhoods are the foundation of a strong society. Were committed to maintaining the
vibrancy of our communities by assisting nonprofits that support: Affordable housing, First time
homeowners, Community revitalization, & Economic development.

Town of Normal
https://www.normal.org/
The Town of Normal: Today, Normal spans 17.04 square miles and has a population of 52,497. It
consists of three colleges and universities and 17 parks spanning 370 acres. The Town of Normal
employs more than 350 full-time individuals who strive to provide a quality environment in which to
live, work and play.
University of Illinois Extension
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state/whatwedo.html
What we do: University of Illinois Extension is the flagship outreach effort of the University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, offering educational programs to respondents of all of Illinois 102
counties and far beyond. Through learning partnerships that put knowledge to work, U of I
Extensions programs are aimed at making life better, healthier, safer and more profitable for
individuals and their communities. U of I Extension offers educational programs in five broad
areas:
Healthy society
Food security and safety
Environmental stewardship
Sustainable and profitable food production and marketing systems
Enhancing youth, family and community well-being
Unit 5 School District
http://www.unit5.org/u5
About us: McLean County Unit District No. 5 employs 1,830 full and part time staff members to
educate over 13,600 students. The district consists of more than 214 square miles, with 16
elementary, 4 junior high and 2 high school buildings, 1 early learning center, and 1 vocational
training site. The district has 156 Illinois Department of Transportation-approved buses in its fleet.
Buses travel 1.9 million miles a year delivering more than 10,000 students to 23 schools.
Appendix L About the Stevenson Center
In the spirit of its namesake, Adlai E. Stevenson II, Illinois State Universitys Stevenson Center is
dedicated to public service and global understanding. The Center serves communities and
organizations around the world, students as they seek the tools for careers in community and
economic development, the related fields of study, and Illinois State University.
Beginning in 1994 as a Peace Corps Fellows Program, the Stevenson Center continues to administer
an interdisciplinary graduate sequence for students pursuing careers in community and economic
development. We facilitate the curriculum, including the required, year-long internship experience
and off-campus graduate assistantships.
Additionally, the Center provides direct service to communities in the form of economic impact
analyses and forecasting, brownfields redevelopment, grant-writing training, and geographic
information systems analysis. Affiliated faculty are active in the scholarship of community and
economic development (e.g., local economic development policy, community supported agriculture,
and rural school closure). Faculty research projects make their way into the classroom, reinforcing
the quality of the educational experience.
Our Mission and Goals, adopted through a strategic planning process in 2006 including faculty,
students, and Advisory Board members, accurately reflect an enlarged spirit of service and attention
to scholarship brought on by a new staff.
http://stevensoncenter.org/about/
Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development
Illinois State University
Campus Box 4200
Normal, Il 61790-4200
Phone: (309) 438-7090
Email: StevensonCenter@IllinoisState.edu
8. Appendices
APPENDIX K University of Illinois College of Law Community Preservation
Clinic PIPP Survey Instrument
U N I V E R S I T Y O F I L L I N O I S
A T U R B A N A - C H A M P A I G N
On the next page is a survey from Mid Central Community Action, Inc., (MCCA) and
researchers at the University of Illinois. If you answer the survey, you will be helping MCCA to
evaluate the programs it currently offers and to consider new programs that might help MCCA
clients. If you participate in other MCCA programs, your answers may help tell us who will
most benefit from these programs. Your answers will also help with research at the University
of Illinois that aims to understand the sort of money problems that Americans face.
The survey should be completed by the head of the household.
There are no known risks to participating in the survey beyond those that exist in daily life. Of
course, answering the survey is completely voluntary, and you can stop at any time. Your
relationship with MCCA or eligibility for MCCA programs will not be affected by whether you
fill out the survey. You can skip any questions you do not want to answer. Your responses will
be kept confidential, and the researchers will not identify you as part of the research.
Your answers also will be shared with the researchers at the University of Illinois. MCCA also
will share with these researchers your information from the intake form for the Percentage of
Income Payment Plan (PIPP). Also, the researchers will use your name on the survey to match
your survey answers with the PIPP intake form. By signing below, you are saying it is OK for
the University of Illinois researchers to see your survey answers and your answers on the PIPP
intake form.
If you have any questions about the research being conducted, please contact Professor Robert
Lawless at rlawless@illinois.edu or (217) 244-6714. If you have any questions about your rights
as a participant in this study, please contact the University of Illinois Institutional Review Board
at 217-333-2670 (collect calls accepted if you identify yourself as a research participant) or via
email at irb@illinois.edu.

University of Illinois Approved Consent
________________________________________ Valid Until April 23, 2014
Name (please print)
________________________________________ ________________________
Signature Date
By signing, I give permission for my answers to this survey and my answers on the PIPP
intake form to be used in a research study at the University of Illinois.
8. Appendices
Housing
Do you currently live in:
Rental housing
Housing that I own
Other: __________________________
How many years have you been living at your current residence:
______________ years
How many other people live in your household?
_____________ Adults, 18 years old or older
_____________ Children, younger than 18 years old
Financial Services
Do you currently have a bank account?
Yes
No
Do you currently have a credit card?
Yes If yes, how many credit cards do you have: _____________
No
In the past twelve months, have you used a payday loan?
Yes
No
In the past twelve months, have you used a tax refund anticipation loan
Yes
No
How do you prepare your income-tax returns?
I do not need to file income tax returns
I prepare the returns myself using paper forms or tax software
A family member or friend prepares them for me
I use a tax-preparation service like Jackson-Hewitt or H&R Block
I pay an accountant or lawyer to prepare them for me.
Other: __________________________
8. Appendices
Financial Decisions
Imagine John needed $500 to pay for a new television after his old television broke, and he
borrowed the money to pay for it. Later, John discovers that he does not have the money to pay
back the loan. He tells the lender he has to use his money for rent, food, and so on. He asks the
lender to cancel the debt because he cannot repay it. Which of the following words best
describes John? We know you have only a little information, but please give us your best
guesses about John. Circle all that apply:
capable honest trustworthy
considerate impulsive unhelpful
clever incompetent greedy
foolish intelligent unreliable
Suppose you had $100 in a savings account and the interest rate was 2% per year. After five
years, how much do you think you would have in the account if you left the money to grow:
more than $102
exactly $102
less than $102?
Do not know
Imagine that the interest rate on your savings account was 1% per year and inflation was 2% per
year. After one year would the money in the account let you buy:
More than today
Exactly the same as today
Less than today
Do not know
Do you think that the following statement is true or false? Buying stock in a single company
usually provides a safer return than a stock mutual fund.
True
False
Do not know
8. Appendices
Financial Abilities
Think about the following statements and circle the point on the scale that you feel is most
appropriate in describing how you feel:
Strongly Strongly
Disagree Agree
You have a certain way of
managing and spending your
money, and you cant really do
much to change it.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
No matter who you are, you can
significantly change the way you
manage and spend money.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
The way you manage and spend
money is something about you
that you cant change very
much.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
You always can substantially
change the way you manage and
spend money.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Transportation
How do you usually get around town (check all that apply)
Vehicle (car/truck/motorcycle) that I own
Someone elses vehicle
Bus/mass transit
Walking
Bicycle
Other: __________________________
Looking at the items you checked, circle the one that you use the most often to get around town.
8. Appendices
Background
Think of these ladders as representing where people stand in the United States. At the top of
the ladder are the people who are the best offthose who have the most money, the most
education, and the most respected jobs. At the bottom of the ladder are the people who are the
worst off who have the least money, least education, and the least respected jobs or no job.
The higher up you are on this ladder, the closer you are to the people at the very top; the lower
you are, the closer you are to the people are the very bottom.
Please put a large X on the
rung of the ladder where you
would put your parents on
this ladder relative to other
people in the United States.
Please put a large X on the
rung of the ladder where
would you put yourself at
this point in your life relative
to other people in the United
States.
If you have children, please
put a large X on the rung of
the ladder where you expect
they will be when they are
adults relative to other people
in the United States.
8. Appendices
Well-being
Think about the following statements and circle the point on the scale that you feel is most
appropriate in describing how you feel:
Strongly Strongly
Disagree Agree
In most ways, my life is close to
ideal.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
The conditions of my life are
excellent.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
I am satisfied with my life. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
So far, I have gotten the
important things I want in life.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
If I could live my life over, I
would change almost nothing.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8. Appendices
Budgeting
Families do different things to get by in tough financial times. Thinking about the last two
years, did you or others in your household have to do any of the following things because you
could not afford it? Did you:
Yes No
go without medical attention, such as doctor visits, or surgery?
go without mental health care, such as counseling or therapy?
go without dental care?
go without medications or prescriptions?
go without health insurance?
go without homeowners, auto, or life insurance?
go without food?
go without car repairs or maintenance?
go without utilities, such as electricity, gas, or water?
make a mortgage or rent payment late?
move out of your home or apartment because it was no longer affordable?
stop putting money into a retirement account?
discontinue further education?
Employment
What is your current employment status? Check all that apply.
Employed Not employed, not seeking work
Self-employed Not employed, disabled
Not employed, seeking work Retired
If you are employed or self-employed, about how many hours per week do you
work?: ________ hours
8. Appendices
Information About You
What is your current marital status? Check one box.
Never married Divorced
Married or in a civil union Widowed
Separated Other: _____________________________
(Please describe)
Do you currently live with a spouse or domestic partner?
Yes
No
Are you, or your spouse/partner, financially responsible for any dependents who are under the
age of 18 (for example, children, step-children, or grandchildren)?
Yes If yes, how many dependents are you responsible for? __________
No
What is your sex? Male
Female
What is your age? _________
With which racial or ethnic group do you identify? Check all that apply.
American Indian or Alaska Native Asian
Black or African American Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White
Other: ________________________ Dont know
(Please describe)
What is the highest degree or level of education you completed? Check one box.
Some education, but no high school diploma or GED
High school diploma or GED
Some college, including a certificate or an Associates degree (AA or AS)
Bachelors degree (for example, BA, BS, or AB)
Graduate or professional degree (for example, MA, MBA, PhD, MD, or JD)
Other ________________________________
8. Appendices
APPENDIX L University of Illinois College of Law Community
Preservation Clinic Focus Groups and Survey Results Summary

Summarized Responses from Next Step Focus Groups and Survey
Procedure
Two focus groups were hosted. The first took place at Mid-Central Community Action and
had three participants, all of which had just attended a foreclosure workshop. The second
took place at Heartland Community College and had nine participants. Participants are
students in GED and advanced ESL (English as a Second Language) courses at the College.
In addition, we conducted a survey in the summer of 2013 of applicants for the Percentage
of Income Payment Plan (PIPP).
Under PIPP, an eligible client pays a percentage of their income, receive a monthly benefit
towards their utility bill, and receive a reduction in overdue payments for every on-time
payment they make by the bill due date.
Summary
While personal struggles with debt differs between the participants, all participants in the
focus groups cited debt as a major concern, both locally and nationally. Participants employ
a variety of methods for tracking their income and expenses, but reached a general
consensus that having such a system is important to personal financial management and
that further assistance for themselves and their community members on how to employ a
successful budgeting method would be helpful.
Generational Differences
One aspect of the focus group was to determine whether people felt they were in a better or
worse financial situation than their parents and to compare that with objective differences
in employment and education between generations. In general, participants felt that they
were in a more difficult financial position than their parents were at their age. Participant
responses varied on whether their parents were good at budgeting or managing money, but
overall felt that it was more difficult for them, given their situations and the economic
environment, to be financially stable. This is consistent with the data received in the
survey. The survey asked that respondents to place where their parents, themselves and
their children on a ladder representing where people financially stand in the United States.
Respondents placed their parents higher (5.5) than themselves (3.5). Respondents placed
their expectations for their children when they are their adults both above themselves and
their parents (6.5).
Participants parents had a variety of education levels. For the most part, participants had
reached or aimed to reach, but not surpass, the same education level as their parents. Some
participants expressed that their parents had urged them to continue their education
beyond what the parent had achieved, but this was not an overarching theme. Within the
survey, the 46% of the respondents had a high school diploma or GED, 28% had some
8. Appendices

college with only 8% having a degree or professional training. A little over 15% of
respondents has no high school degree.
When asked about their children, all participants who were parents stated that they wished
for their children to go to college. However, some expressed concern that the cost of
education would be prohibitive.
Job Satisfaction
Many of the participants surveyed were not employed, though this may not be
representative based on the targeted groups. The majority of respondents to the PIPP
survey where not employed with 45% disabled and 24% retired. 20% of the respondents
were employed (less than 2% self-employed) and the remaining 10% of respondents were
seeking work.
Participants cited the following as the most desirable job traits: stable hours, high pay, short
commute, and a teamwork atmosphere. When prompted, participants did not seem to feel
that there was a lack of childcare benefits, but those with young children wanted
employment out of the house that would provide them with sufficient pay to cover childcare
and reasonable hours to spend at home with their family.
Participants generally cited the financial environment and lack of education as their biggest
hurdles to satisfactory employment. It should be noted that this response might be skewed
as many of the participants are in the process of attaining education for the purpose of
attaining jobs. Regardless, nearly all participants felt that investing in their education would
be very helpful in securing employment.
Predatory Lending
Only a few of the participants discussed a personal experience payday, car, or similar types
of loans. For those who had, some felt they could be a helpful tool in limited situations,
while others saw them as helpful, but abusive. One particular lender in Bloomington-
Normal was identified as routinely offering to renew small loans, creating a system of
dependency. While participants viewed these loans as a poor overall decision, they
appreciated the service they could provide especially in saving people from repeatedly
asking friends or family for assistance. Of the respondents to the survey, 11% had used a
payday loan in the last 12 months and 6% has used a tax refund loan in last 12 months.
Other participants had witnessed family or friends taking advantage of these types of
financing options and decided to avoid them based on what they witnessed.
8. Appendices

Personal Finances
The bulk of the focus group discussions focused on how participants managed their
personal finances. This discussion started with a debate about what people consider to be a
budget and whether such is a helpful tool. Participants generally defined a budget as a
means for tracking income and expenses. Many participants maintained some form of a
budget, though some included a running mental tally of expenses to meet the definition.
Most participants felt that maintaining a budget was a very important tool. At least one
participant mentioned that he was unaware of the realities of his financial situation until
being instructed to fill out an income/expense form. He concluded that a physical tracking
system was crucial to making smarter financial decisions.
The group was split of the feasibility of maintaining a budget. Many felt that it was
reasonably feasible and that they could save some money for unexpected expenses, while
others felt that it was impossible to sufficiently plan for all expenses and that maintaining a
written budget was overwhelming. For those behind in bills, a budget seemed unrealistic, as
all income went directly to paying bills.
To learn more about how people make financial decisions, participants were asked about
how they approached the last big purchase they had made. Some participants had made
large splurge purchases spontaneously. They expressed regret for these purchases after
the fact and sometimes found the experience to cause problems with spouses/partners.
Other participants had large purchases in the form of unexpected expenses (ex. increased
bills, medical bills). From this experience, participants expressed that they were now trying
to plan for such occasions and save emergency funds.
Participants were also asked about what they saw as their biggest personal financial error
or what errors they saw people in their community committing. Nearly all participants felt
debt was a major concern and that many community members were taking on too much for
things like student loans. The survey asked respondents about the number of credit cards
they had with the following results: 75% had no card, 17% had 1, 6% had 2, and less than 2
% have more with 6 being the highest number reported.
Many were also concerned that community members failure to plan for unexpected
expenses, as well as having personal experiences with this problem.
A few participants felt their mistakes occurred when they make short-term financial
decisions (i.e. splurge purchases) when they had cash in hand, instead of setting the money
aside to pay down debts or save for future expenses.
The survey asked respondents stated that in the last two years they or a member of their
household had to go without: medical attention (30%), mental health care (20%), dental
care (66%), prescriptions or medication (35%), health insurance (35%); homeowners, auto,
8. Appendices

or life insurance (41%); food (25%); car repairs or maintenance (63%); and utilities (14%).
Please note the respondents were allowed to select as many of the options as applied. Also
of the respondents surveyed only 66% had their own vehicle and the above referenced 63%
were of all that were surveyed.
Participants were then asked how they approached food shopping, as an example of routine
financial decision-making. Some said they did not use a list; they purchased products at the
store based on comparative costs. Other participants employed strategies such as weekly
meal planning and using coupons/sales to cut costs.
Many said that using a list or sticking to a number of staples was their usual strategy, and
that extraneous purchases varied on how their budget was doing at the time. At least one
participant shared that she had been able to lower her monthly expenses by asking herself
and her son whether she needed vs. wanted various products while shopping, and another
took pride in learning to say no to the unnecessary requests of his children for things at the
store. Both felt this lowered their expenses and helped instill better financial decision
making skills in their children.
Financial Education
Many participants felt they had never been taught how to manage their finances and relied
on self-help. In particular, participants mentioned learning from their own financial errors
or from errors they had seen their family (particularly parents) make. Others relied on help
or teaching from siblings or spouses when managing their finances. Communication and co-
managing money were discussed as a point of contention between couples and families.
Participants generally felt their peers were not good at money management and that they
would be somewhat open to assistance. Parents were identified as the best educators for
instilling good financial habits and parents in the group expressed a feeling of responsibility
for teaching their children how to be financially responsible. Besides parents, the
participants thought that some financial management education by teachers in middle and
high school would be helpful.
8. Appendices

In order to gauge financial literacy, the survey asked the following questions:
Suppose you had $100 in a savings account and the interest rate was 2% per year. After five
years, how much do you think you would have in the account if you left the money to grow:
more than $102
exactly $102
less than $102?
Do not know
Imagine that the interest rate on your savings account was 1% per year and inflation was
2% per year. After one year would the money in the account let you buy:
More than today
Exactly the same as today
Less than today
Do not know
Do you think that the following statement is true or false? Buying stock in a single company
usually provides a safer return than a stock mutual fund.
True
False
Do not know
Respondents on average responded correctly to 1.364 with the median being 1. 25% of the
respondents did not answer any of the questions correctly.

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