The Regional AI included a significant amount of community participation. Methods of engagement included a resident survey; resident focus groups; stakeholder focus groups; presentations at community meetings; and policymaker briefings. Findings from this outreach, in addition to the quantitative analysis conducted for the study, were used to identify impediments and determine the highest priority fair housing issues.

The survey was available online and in hard copy form, distributed through social service networks, ethnic restaurants, day labor sites, and places of worship. Altogether, more than 5,000 surveys were received from residents.

Stakeholders were represented in focus groups to discuss challenges in housing, employment and job training, and access to opportunity for persons with disabilities.

Focus groups were also conducted with low to moderate income residents in the region. As shown in the figure below, more than 350 residents attended focus groups. These residents represented a wide range of racial, ethnic, and household groups—with over-representation of residents who are historically proportionately less likely to be involved in planning processes.

The figure below summarizes the extensive engagement that was part of the AI.