Addressing research-validated community needs through data-driven community philanthropy: A case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT While many community foundations use data to focus philanthropic resources to address identified needs, creating and using a compiled data set as the basis for establishing a shared community agenda is unique. Driven, in part, by cuts in government spending in 2012, the Lincoln Community Foundation in Lincoln, Nebraska acted as the convener of leaders from across the community in creating and interpreting data, and in engaging the community in conversations that led to a shared agenda. The defined path to community betterment created with data as the basis assured confidence and buy-in from donors as well as from private and public resources. The initial results and willingness on the part of all entities to continue to engage in this long-term initiative demonstrate the power of building a shared agenda and grassroots support by using data at the ground level of development.