USAID Youth Power Activity Community Asset Mapping Analysis Report – Al-Sharaah City

The assessment used a three-fold strategy, consisting of an institutional mapping tool, a community mapping tool, and a focus group discussion with youth. The process was guided by youth and designed to enhance their agency, self-efficacy, and initiative programming. The community mapping survey, conducted with 171 participants, revealed various issues of major concern or major problems for the community. The highest rated issues of concern included the need for a library, building capacities and awareness of people with disabilities, and entrepreneurial guidance and mentorship. The survey also highlighted the importance of having well-maintained parks for youth to gather and interact, addressing tribalism, and providing assistance for persons with learning difficulties. The institutional mapping survey, conducted with 17 institutions, identified the needs of youth who did not complete their education. The survey revealed that the top needs included vocational training, job placement, and counseling services. The focus group discussion with 12 youth from the community provided deeper insight into their priority issues, including the need for spaces that support personal growth and assist in creating distinct youth. The results of the community mapping survey showed that 97% of the participants were Jordanian, 2% were Syrian, and 1% were of other nationalities. The age group surveyed ranged from 10-70 years, with 60% of the sample being 29 years and under. The gender distribution was 71% females and 29% males. The institutional mapping survey revealed that the majority of institutions in Al-Sharaah were governmental (65%), followed by non-profit organizations (23%), and religious institutions (12%). The survey also identified critical equipment missing from health centers, including female nurses during the night shift, and the need for assistance for persons with learning difficulties. The main findings of the report are broken down into six categories: Youth Development, Educational Environment, Health, Social Environment, Inclusion, and Community Services. The report highlights the need for youth outlets, including libraries, entertainment, and disability-friendly public places. The focus group feedback emphasized the importance of maintaining the football field, providing spaces for females to gather, and supporting personal growth. The report also highlights the need for institutions to provide vocational training, job placement, and counseling services for youth who did not complete their education. The focus group discussion revealed that there are approximately 90 persons with disabilities in Al-Sharaah, and there is a need for training and support for employees working with persons with disabilities, as well as emotional support and education for parents of children with disabilities. Overall, the community asset mapping assessment in Al-Sharaah City provided valuable insights into the needs and challenges of the community's youth. The report highlights the need for institutions to provide youth-friendly services, including libraries, entertainment, and disability-friendly public places, as well as vocational training, job placement, and counseling services for youth who did not complete their education.