Meeting people where they are: Amplifying resident voices through a Community Pop-Up method

Abstract Information: Community pop-ups are a method for gathering data that meets people where they are. Derived from strategies often utilized in urban planning, community pop-ups are a method for engaging with people in key spaces or events where they already gather to collect input on targeted questions. In our work, we implemented ten community pop-up events across the Southwest Ohio region to gather data on digital access needs from populations that experience the greatest barriers to digital opportunity. We collected a mixture of qualitative and quantitative data from 127 individuals across the Southwest Ohio region, on current levels of digital access, key barriers, and relevant solutions. Using the community pop-up process, we amplified voices that are typically unheard and/or commonly left out of regional and statewide planning processes. In this demonstration, we will present an overview of the community pop-up method and strategies for facilitation. The presenters will also engage participants in a demonstration of the method and share facilitation resources for using this approach in future work. Participants will walk away with example protocols, data collection resources, and specific logistic and facilitation tips so evaluators can easily integrate this strategy in their own work. As a result, we aim to support evaluators in considering creative and alternative methods for meaningfully engaging with communities to enhance representation and amplify voices that are often omitted.