AIRS I&R Community Resource Specialists Practice Exam

What does resource mapping involve in the context of IandR?

1. A method to identify available resources within a community

2. A technique for long-term planning

3. A focus group strategy for service evaluation

4. A way to collect demographic information

The correct answer is: A method to identify available resources within a community

Resource mapping is a crucial part of Information and Referral (I&R) services, as it provides a systematic approach to identifying and cataloging the various resources available within a community. This process involves documenting services, programs, and facilities, which may include healthcare, housing support, educational resources, and social services, among others. By conducting resource mapping, I&R professionals can gain a comprehensive understanding of the available assistance and support mechanisms within the community. This information is vital for effectively connecting clients to the resources that meet their specific needs. Resource mapping not only helps in identifying existing services but also highlights gaps in services, thus allowing for better planning and response to community needs. The other options focus on different aspects that, while relevant in certain contexts, do not specifically describe the primary function of resource mapping within I&R. Long-term planning, focus group strategies for service evaluation, and demographic information collection are important for overall community engagement and assessment but are not directly tied to the immediate goal of identifying available resources.