NEEdS ASSESSMENT » 137 ARE THERE ANY ENHANCEMENTS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE THAT WOULD ENCOURAGE YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES OFFERED PROGRAMS? There were 46 responses to this open ended question that was asked in conjunction with which Coppell Programs Teens currently use. A summary of the main themes for the open ended responses are below. 1. AWARENESS & PROMOTION (15): Advertising & Communication: Many responses mention that programs are not well known, and more advertising (via newsletters, emails, posters, etc.) is needed. Summary: There is a strong need for better communication about available programs, especially using channels like newsletters, schools, posters, and email notifications. 2. PROGRAM OFFERINGS (6): Volunteer Opportunities: Several people express a desire for more volunteer opportunities, especially for teens. They also mention that existing programs may not be well publicized or sufficient. Summary: The community would like to see more and varied volunteer options, including at places like animal shelters, and generally, people want these programs to be more flexible and easily accessible. 3. PROGRAM VARIETY (4): Suggestions for New Programs: Many respondents suggest adding more diverse programs, such as fitness programs, yoga classes, and nature-based activities. Summary: The desire for more variety in available programs is evident, with calls for fitness, yoga, and other skill-building or healthy living activities. 4. COST & FEES (3): Affordability: A number of responses mention that the cost of certain programs or camps might be a barrier, and more affordable or reasonable pricing is desired. Summary: respondents request that programs and activities, such as teen camps and fitness programs, be more affordable to increase participation. 5. FLEXIBILITY & ACCESSIBILITY (3): Program Hours & Locations: Some respondents mention the need for more flexible hours or locations that are accessible by walking or bike lanes. Summary: There is a call for programs to be more flexible in timing and location to accommodate a wider range of participants. 6. SPECIFIC SUGGESTIONS (2): Internship & Skill-Building Programs: A few people specifically mentioned a desire for more internships and skill-building programs for high school students. Summary: There is an interest in internships for high school students and programs that teach new skills, especially those that help with volunteer hours or personal growth. Specific recommendations for improving teen participation in Coppell offered programs include increasing awareness of programs, expanding volunteer options, improving affordability, and diversifying program offerings. Community Experiences staff could choose to use multiple communication channels to promote programs like social media or school outreach, while providing flexible schedules and more locations for offerings. Coppell could also diversify program offerings - specific suggestions from the open ended responses included a focus on healthy living, yoga, nature, and internships. These responses suggest that while there are some existing programs, there’s a desire for better accessibility, more variety, and improved communication to increase participation.
