Using Data to Inform Community-Driven Decision Making in East Garfield Park

A critical component of the Institute for Housing Studies’ (IHS) applied research model includes technical assistance to community groups and custom data analysis that illustrates different factors behind changing neighborhood dynamics. These types of data can provide a greater understanding of the reasons behind neighborhood change, provide evidence that amplifies the day-to-day experiences of community members, and inform community-led conversions to identify priorities and strategies. IHS's role as a data intermediary in East Garfield Park illustrates how data analysis that is tailored to the neighborhood context can inform community-centered discussions about addressing different types of housing challenges facing Chicago's neighborhoods.