Population survey enters final phase

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2009-01-15T00:00:00

The final phase of the four-phase demographic study conducted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland is in its final weeks and days now.

Phase four is an in-depth census that probes needs, desires and views across the entire Jewish community.

Federation Communications Director Josh Stein said the census was sent to some 3,000 Jewish households by e-mail the week of Feb. 16. Some 1,500 paper surveys were sent via the U.S. Postal Service and 18,000 phone call attempts were in the process of being made by interviewers with Yacoubian Research, the Memphis, Tenn., firm contracted to conduct the study.

JFGP Executive Vice President Charles R. Schiffman said the study is a critical component in planning for the local Jewish community now and into the future.

“Our community has several organizations that plan very well for themselves, but the entire community has not participated in an overall planning effort for at least 30 years if not more,” said Schiffman.

He said the study is part of several “welcome and overdue” community planning initiatives.

“The study will only be effective and valid if we have significant participation from all parts of the community, so it is quite important for everyone who can to respond. Getting the information will be only the first stage of action with regard to the study, but it is essential to complete this phase fully and promptly.”

Stein said the deadline for the return of completed surveys is March 2, “unless otherwise extended.”

He said the earliest date the federation might be expected to report initial key findings of the survey was mid-April

If someone did not receive a survey and would like to have their voice heard, they should contact Yacoubian Research by email at will@yacoubianresearch.com or by phone at 1-877-250-7890.

The full study has six key objectives:• Obtain scientifically valid estimates of the Jewish population and Jewish households.• Estimate the number of unaffiliated Jews, ascertain their reason for non-affiliation, and determine what type of services (if any) would convince them to affiliate with the Jewish community in greater Portland.• Project future trends in Jewish population growth as well as growth in Jewish households. • Compile demographic data from Jews and people of Jewish background living in the four counties in the Portland Metropolitan Statistical Area.• Identify the Jewish population’s awareness of, connection to, affiliation with and attitudes toward existing Jewish institutions, as well as their satisfaction with current services and programs.• Ascertain future social-service and infrastructure needs of the greater Portland Jewish community.