The Sycamore News!!

April 1996 Lansing, MI

The Sycamore News!

Hello Sycamore residents! We would like to thank you for participating in our survey that we conducted a few months ago. The purpose of the study was to determine how strong of a "sense of community" exists on your block. To show our appreciation, we have developed this newsletter specifically for your block. Let’s take a look at what you have had to say.

Strong Sense of Connection and Belonging

Many of you told us that you feel connected to each other and that you belong on Sycamore. Here are the percentages of those who agreed with some specific responses:

People on this block know each other (67%).

People on this block socialize with each other (67%).

People on this block feel connected to each other (67%).

People on this block feel they belong here (67%).

There is a feeling of community spirit among residents on this block (67%).

Residents are committed to the block’s future (83%).

People on this block do not feel isolated from each other (83%).

People on this block trust each other (83%).

People on this block talk to each other about community problems (100%).

People on this block like each other (100%).

Congratulations! These are very encouraging responses.

Support and Participation on Sycamore

You had some varying responses to questions about support and participation on your block. For example, 17% of you told us that you participate in social activities such as pot lucks, but 67% participate in community improvement activities such as flower plantings, and 100% of you said that you participate in the curbside recycling program.

Regarding support to each other, 17% said that you would feel comfortable borrowing and lending things from each other; 33% said that you take care of each others’ plants, pets, and kids; 83% said that you watch out for each other; and 100% of you said that you would give rides to each other if needed.

Safety: A Possible Concern

Exactly 50% of you indicated that you felt Sycamore is a safe place to live, and that it is safe to walk on the street at night. Crime in the surrounding area was the most common response to the question, "What is the major problem facing this block". Encouragingly, though, 83% of you indicated that you can reduce the amount of crime on your block.

Overall Sense of Community

Overall, residents indicate that Sycamore has a strong sense of community. Over half of you told us that you are part of a neighborhood organization, watch group. You are aware of you community newsletter (83%); and that there is a clear leader on the block (67%). Finally, 83% of you said that you would be interested in working together to improve conditions on Sycamore.

Thank you once again for your participation in our survey. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact John Schweitzer at 353-9144, Urban Affairs Programs at Michigan State University.