Bischoff, Deborah. 1985, December, 1988 - A NEEDS ASSESSMENT OF YOUTH RECREATION AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Abstract: The United Way of Greater Tampa, Inc. decided on recreation and development services for youth as part of its ongoing planning activities. The topic was chosen primarily because: 1) youth comprise nearly 20% of the service area population, 2) nearly one-third of United Way member agencies devote their programs to youth, and 3) the nature of these services are preventative. The author served as a planning intern with United Way to conduct the needs assessment study. The research design was determined prior to the internship. The design involved a review of current relevant studies and literature, an analysis of existing demographic and crime data, and obtaining information from local service providers. Fourteen organizations including ten United Way member agencies participated in the study by providing service statistics and opinions concerning unmet youth needs and problems that hinder the effective delivery of youth recreation and development services in Hillsborough County. The analysis of demographic and crime data led to the identification of a section near downtown Tampa as an area in need of more recreation and development services. The analysis of service provider information and statistics demonstrated that although adequate facilities are located throughout the county, additional programs need to be developed especially in the geographic area of greatest need. In order for programs to be successful, volunteers and youth must be recruited and their active participation encouraged. Other findings suggest the need for coordination among service providers in programming, in the utilization of existing resources, and in the earlier identification of specialized needs of youth. The primary recommendation calls for a mobile recreation unit to provide outreach services in the community. A second major recommendation calls for communication among area youth serving agencies to lead toward the establishment of an informal Youth Services Council. .