Public Use of Vilas Beach: Study of Beach Usage (2001-2002)

Elena Weber, Introduction to Natural Science course

Background Information

Study Design
Based on the information on the decline of beach usage, I was interested in what issues and circumstances affect organization’s decisions to use Vilas beach. My survey focused on organizations associated with culturally diverse backgrounds. I was interested in what issues were most important to them.

Profiles of Respondents

• Centro Hispano works with about 15 primarily Latino students during the summer who are in the 7th, 8th, and 9th grades and come from low socio-economic backgrounds.
• During the summer, Nehemiah Community Development Center works with dual-heritage and African-American children from all over Madison. Many of the students are high-risk and disadvantaged. Students from all socio-economic statuses are represented.
• The Boys and Girls Club of Dane County has 449 club members, ages 7-18. The members are primarily African-American and come from a range of socio-economic classes.
• Joan Laurion is part of Family Child Care Providers. Most of the children she worked with resided in the Vilas Neighborhood. The group was diversified.
• Madison School Community Outreach works with thousands of people every year from ages 4-80 representing a variety of groups.

Questions and Summary of Responses