Lincoln Park Community Chicago, Essay Example

History of community

Lincoln Park was once a home to a small pox hospital and a cemetery due to its remoteness until the 1860s. The famous residents were artist Henry Darger, L. Frank Baum, and Buckminster Fuller. The shift of Lincoln Park took place from the 1950’s to the 1970’s when it underwent a population increase. During this time it also became the home to the first Puerto Rican immigrants. There are still a few Puerto Rican residents today. The neighborhood has grown and now has outdoor theater, the Chicago History Museum, a zoo, a rowing canal, nature museum, and a statue of Ulysses S. Grant.

The community also contains some of Chicago’s most prominent cultural institutions. There is a lakefront and park which allow for all types of scenery for picnics, rollerblading, skating, and bicycling. The Emerald Garden Park has statues of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Toto, Dorothy, and the Cowardly Lion. It also has the Dorothy Sandlot for the children. Lincoln Park also has architecturally significant churches such as St. Josephat’s and St. Vincent’s DePaul. The churches add to the history and the charm in Lincoln Park. The community has a significant amount of interesting sites. It has pubs, bars, nightlife, book stores, boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. It provides and authentic way for people to experience Chicago.

Geographic Boundaries

Lincoln Park is bordered by Lake Michigan, the area of Lakeview to the north. The northwest is bordered by North Center, the west Logan Square, the southwest West Town, and the south Near North. The official community area is defined specifically from the city’s official list. The east is Lake Michigan, the north Diversey Parkway, the west Chicago River and the south, North Avenue.

Number of residents

The Population of Lincoln Park is 66,617 (ACS, 2013). The number of residents are continually growing yearly. The community is higher in cost of living and housing, therefore lower income residents are not likely to find their fit in increasing the number of residents in the Lincoln Park community.

Age

According to ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates the age breakdown is vast. There are 3,933 with unknown ages, and 2,626 who are between the ages of 5 to 9. The age bracket of 10 to 14 years there are 1,957 and 3,386 who are 15 to 19. The dominant age brackets in this community are 20 to 24 9,276 and 21,318 who are between 25 to 34 years old. The numbers begin to drop, 35 to 44 years old there are 9,006 and 5,950 between 45 to 54 years of age. The age brackets of 55 to 59 years, 60 to 64 years, and 65 to 74 year are 2,694, 2,627, and 3,401 respectively. There are 1,432 who are 75 to 84 and over 85 years of age there are 757. (ACS, 2013).

Race/ethnicity

ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates also provides the race/ethnicity composition of Lincoln Park community. The community is predominantly white, with 59,888 white residents. There are 2,665 black or African Americans. American Indian and Alaskan Natives there are 196. Cherokee and Chippewa tribal grouping there are 51. Asian and Asian Indians are 3,451 and 1,106 respectively. The community has 777 Chinese and 553 Filipinos. There are 177 Japanese, 469 Koreans, 81 Vietnamese, and 288 other Asians. Lastly, there are 850 other races and 1,299 members of the community who are two or more races. (ACS, 2013). The Hispanics were pushed out of Lincoln Park through gentrification in the 1960s and the 1970s.

Medium income

The Median household income in 2011 was $88467 (Lincoln Park, 2011). Whereas there are individuals who make significantly higher or lower than this figure, the average income is upper-class.

Education levels

Education date show that 3% of the community who is 18 and over only obtained a high school education. It also shows that 80% obtained a Bachelor’s degree or higher. The education level is higher in Lincoln Park community due to the job requirements for working professionals. The higher the annual income, the higher the stipulations for education levels.

Occupation

The occupations in Lincoln Park are vast. There are many professionals who work on the higher end of the median income. There are also blue collar workers, police, fireman and other service related fields. The neighborhood has a vast mix of young professionals, families with young children, and college students. The majority of the people who live in Lincoln Park Community comes from a wealthy and affluent background. It is Chicago’s second richest community.

Poverty level

The Lincoln Park community has 12.3% below the poverty level. According to ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates, the income range shows there is 1393 below $0-$9k. The income bracket of $10k-$19k, $20k-$29k, and $30k-39k is 1,176, 1,045, and 1,225 respectively. The next bracket is a shift upward showing that $40k-$49k is 1,328 and $50k and $59k is 965. The income bracket continues to increase from $60k-$74k, $75k-$99k, and $100k-$124k is respectively 1,557, 1,771, and 1,351. The numbers in the higher brackets are still significant, $150k-$199k 1,328 and $200k-$249k 482. Lastly, $250k-$499k 835, and over $500k there are 1,172 (ACS, 2013).

Key health indicators

Lincoln Park community is above average in income, therefore health indicators are less dependent upon the lack of economic resources to obtain the care they need. There is a small concern about low birth weight and preterm births. Teen pregnancy is minimal, but does exist within this community. Cancer is one of the largest health concerns that affects this community despite the economic advancements they live among. The second main health indicator is heart disease. Stroke and lung cancer are also growing concerns within the community. There is also a significant presence of sexually transmitted diseases which are present in men and women.

Windshield Survey

Watching the community it was clear to see that there were many individuals who were on a mission. Watching well-dressed professionals hustling down the street, in-and-out of stores, restaurants and coffee shops. The observation allowed one to assume that these individuals are on their lunch breaks, needing to get food or errands ran in between their busy work day requirements.

Date of Assessment, time of day, weather conditions

The date of assessment was May 13, 2015. The time of day was 12:00 p.m. and the weather condition was sunny and warm.

Observations in Lincoln Park Community in Chicago

The observation first noticed the individuals who were working daily. Visiting local businesses, restaurants, and coffee shops to get food or other necessary errands done during their busy work day. The windshield survey shifted to the local park where there were significant amount of individuals exercising. There were bikers, runners, walkers, and rollerblading. It is not known if the working professionals were getting their exercise in on their lunch break, or if this part of the community was not working during the lunch time hours, but there were a lot of individuals out focusing on their health through fitness activities.

Housing & Zoning?

Each community has its own zoning and housing regulations based upon the composition of the community. The ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates shows there are 36,801 total housing units in Lincoln Park Community (ACS, 2013). The push for luxury homes is growing with the community. It is the wealthiest community in Chicago and the community is pushing to maintain the image. There are apartments, rental homes, and land that is available for new homes to be built. According to Forbes Magazine, the Armitage Street and Orchard Street areas are the most expensive locations in Chicago.

Open Space

It is unknown the amount of open spaces that are still available in Lincoln Park community, however with the vast development that has gone on during this time it is assumed that there is little land left which is undeveloped at this point.

Boundaries

The boundaries of the Lincoln Park community is from the city’s official list. The east is Lake Michigan, the north Diversey Parkway, the west Chicago River and the south, North Avenue.

Common Hangouts

The common hang outs are dependent upon the person. There is the zoo, museum, and local coffee house dependent upon personal preference. The park next to the lake is also popular to go play, exercise, or just intermix with others. There are bars and nightlife, music, and any type of venue that can be desired.

Transportation

There is a vast amount of transportation options available in Lincoln Park. There is Midway park ride and fly, Diversey, taxis, Uber, and Fullerton. There is also private transportation and ride share programs which allow commuters to save gas and the environment by riding together.

Service Centers/ Stores

Lincoln Park community has many different service centers and stores. There are car repair and maintenance, home maintenance, and virtually any service that the community may need. There are also a vast amount of stores, malls, shopping centers that also accommodate the demands of the Lincoln Park community.

Street People

There were some moms who were taking their kids from store to store in efforts to complete their errands. However, the majority of the street people observed were business professionals dressed to fit the part. There were college kids who were carrying backpacks and older individuals who appeared to be just walking around enjoying the atmosphere. The majority of the observed street people were white, however there were a small amount of other races observed on the street.

Sign of Decay

The community is well-kept, there were workers who were on the street during the windshield survey keeping up with the appearance and maintenance. There was no sign of decay visibly present in the community. There were some houses that could use a fresh coat of paint or new landscaping, but there is no visible sign of decay.

Race/ Ethnicity

The race and ethnicity in the community is predominantly white. There is a small mix of other races such as African Americans, Asians, and American Indians. The race and ethnicity limits were visible from the windshield survey, the majority of the community is dominantly and visibly white.

Religion

The religion in Lincoln Park community is vast. There are Catholic, Protestants, Baptist, non-denominational, and other religious organizations within this community. It is not clear the extent that religious affiliation plays on this community.

Health and Morbidity

The age-adjusted health and morbidity rate in Lincoln Park Community is equal to other Chicago communities and less than the U.S. average. The issues with health and morbidity are discussed in greater detail later in the paper.

Politics

There are a certain amount of politics in the community due to the growing money that controls the future. The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce has an active role in the political considerations and the future opportunities within this community.

Media

Lincoln Park has the traditional media outlets such as newspaper, radio, and television. It also uses social media as a means to communicate community news, business, and advertisements.

Statistical analysis 

The statistical analysis of the community will focus on the issues that the residents face. Table A will discuss the crime issues that Lincoln Park community is facing. Table B is the health issues which are being faced in Lincoln Park and the surrounding communities. The majority of the information obtained and the observation allows one to assume that this community is free from issues, however the statistical analysis show different results.

Table A shows the statistical information for crime that Lincoln Park is facing. The index of 100 is what that national average is facing, showing that Lincoln Park is significantly higher in most areas. The statistics shows that in additional to other issues which the community may face, the crime areas need to be addressed within the community.

The statistical analysis of community health in Lincoln Park community shows the largest issues that the community is facing is cancer, coronary heart disease, diabetes-related illness, lung cancer, stroke, and unintentional injuries. This allows for the user to understand the health related issues that Lincoln Park needs to address.

Demographics Of the Community

The demographics of the community have been thoroughly discussed earlier in this paper. However to reiterate the importance of demographics, the race/ethics will be discussed again.        ACS Demographic and Housing Estimates also provides the race/ethnicity composition of Lincoln Park community. The community is predominantly white, with 59,888 white residents. There are 2,665 black or African Americans. American Indian and Alaskan Natives there are 196. Cherokee and Chippewa tribal grouping there are 51. Asian and Asian Indians are 3,451 and 1,106 respectively. The community has 777 Chinese and 553 Filipinos. There are 177 Japanese, 469 Koreans, 81 Vietnamese, and 288 other Asians. Lastly, there are 850 other races and 1,299 members of the community who are two or more races. (ACS, 2013). The Hispanics were pushed out of Lincoln Park through gentrification in the 1960s and the 1970s.

Community Problems & Evidence based intervention 

The Windshield Survey observed many individuals active in their recreational and physical activities. The two leading causes of death in this community is cancer and heart disease. The community diagnosis for cancer and heart disease is early screening and preventative initiatives. Encouraging the community to participate actively in the early detection will provide better chances of treating cancer or heart disease. If undetected, it can lead to serious health issues and even death. The issues that are plaguing the community can be prevented by knowing the issues exist and taking every possible preventative measure to catch it early.

The statistical issues are important to understanding the problem. Cancer comes in many different forms. Take for example breast cancer, it is one of the most common cancers in women. “More than 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer at the earliest stage survive their disease for at least 5 years compared to around 15% for women diagnosed with the most advanced stage of disease” (Why is Early, 2015). Annual exams and home testing can catch breast cancer early and increase the survival rate significantly. Lung cancer is another cancer which can be detected through preventative check-ups. “Around 70% of lung cancer patients will survive for at least a year if diagnosed at the earliest stage compared to around 15% for people diagnosed with the most advanced stage of disease” (Why is Early, 2015). The survival statistics are important to understand how important it is to take every measure possible to catch cancer early on. “Most patients diagnosed in this way have lower chances of survival compared to other patients” (Why is Early, 2015).

Early detection and prevention of coronary heart disease can also serve as a tool in increasing survival rates. Statistics show that “the death rate among adults 45-64 years of age decreased from 8% from 1997 to 2007. Cancer and heart disease accounted for 54% of deaths in this age group in 2007” (Health, 2010). Screening and early detection is vital for preventing death from heart disease related illnesses. It can be treated aggressively in many different ways to ensure that the disease does not have a devastating outcome.

Public health nurses can impact the problem and the implementation of the action by being the front runner with patient care. The funding for preventative care is often covered by insurance, so the expense would be limited to the marketing awareness program. Nurses interact with patients on a daily basis. It is important to educate the patients on the importance of having regular screenings. When nurses are getting vitals and patient information they can take the opportunity to inform the patients of the services available to them for cancer and coronary heart disease preventative measures. Also reaching the community through a health-focused marketing campaign can raise awareness in the battle of cancer and coronary heart disease.

Conclusion

The importance of preventative health initiatives is often overlooked. Lincoln Park Community is picture perfect from the outside looking in, however after a careful analysis there is significant health related issues to consider. Cancer and coronary heart disease is a serious health issue that is becoming more and more common. Preventative methods and early detection can aid in the treatment and favorable outcome. These health issues come with a significant threat of death, and the longer it goes undetected, the greater the threat. Nurses can be a significant advocate in reaching the community and providing preventative education. They are one the frontline of patient care and can be the voice of education and reason that patients often overlook. Education and awareness to the importance of routine checkups and preventative initiatives can change the health issues that the Lincoln Park community is facing and aid in preventing the unnecessary loss of life that will occur if it goes untreated.

References

Acs Demographic And Housing Estimates. (2013). United States Census Bureau. Retrieved from http://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?src=CF

Community Health Profile Report for Avondale, North Center, Lakeview and Lincoln Park. (2011). Illinois Public Health Institute and Presence Health.

Health, United States. (2010). US Department of Health and Human Services.

Lincoln Park neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois (IL), 60614 detailed profile. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.city-data.com/neighborhood/Lincoln-Park-Chicago-IL.html

Realtor.com. (2014). Lincoln Park, Chicago, Il. Retrieved from http://www.realtor.com/local/Lincoln-Park_Chicago_IL/lifestyle

Why is early diagnosis important? (2015). Retrieved from http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-symptoms/why-is-early-diagnosis-important