Identify

A crucial first step in any endeavor is to define the problem being addressed. Following are some questions that might be asked to shed light on an issue under discussion, along with examples of some answers that can help clarify the

Issue: All people driving too fast on neighborhood streets.

1. Is anyone being hurt or is it simply annoying?

So far, no one has been hurt and it is very annoying not to be able to cross the street to a neighbor’s house without risking being run over.

2. Is there potential for harm to anyone even if there has been no harm thus far?

There is great potential for harm to small children playing in their front yards, to   people walking in their neighborhoods and to the drivers who could have an accident and hurt or kill someone else while hurting or killing themselves.

3. What exactly is the source of potential harm (or annoyance)?

The source of the potential harm is the disrespect of traffic laws and others’rights that allows people to speed through neighborhoods as though they were traveling on the highway.

4. Where is the problematic behavior occurring? When?

           It is occurring on neighborhood residential streets and it occurs at all hours of the day and night. The cars             are usually going so fast that it is impossible to tell who is driving, whether it’s a young person or an adult.

5. Who are the main individuals involved in causing the problem?

            Everyone who treats neighborhood streets as though there is no residential speed limit. Even if the speed limit isn’t posted, residential areas are usually 25 mph.

Conclusion: This is a viable problem that could be successfully addressed by a committee working on neighborhood needs (speed limit signs for a start) as well as safer neighborhoods.

The same format can be used to identify any problem a community member thinks is worth the effort to clarify: underage drinking, empty houses being used for parties, misuse of prescription drugs, vendors selling to minors, people under the influence driving, neighborhoods threatened by drug dealing on the streets, frequent loud parties…if someone thinks it is a neighborhood/community issue, answering these few questions can clarify the matter and help MASH focus on assisting with solutions. Remember:  Local people solve local problems best.