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Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

POSITIVE COMMUNITIES HAVE SOCIAL CAPITAL

Economists and sociologists often point out that communities that are thriving and prospering enjoy a high level of social capital. Generally speaking, social capital is defined as the connections within and between people and social networks. Sociologists view social capital as a value determined by the social cohesion and connectedness among groups and stakeholders that creates a shared interest and induces collective action. Put in simpler terms, communities with high levels of social capital have citizens that are engaged and willing to get involved. The communities that lack social capital have citizens that are apathetic and only think of their own self-interest rather than promoting the common good. There are ten indicators that determine the amount of social capital within a community; trust, cooperation, mutual support, caring, consensus, respect, cohesiveness, commitment, investment and civic participation. When these ten elements are present, a community vitality emerges and a synergism develops that advances the community’s ability to overcome challenges and make progress even during difficult economic times.

Thriving and prosperous communities usually have a high degree of social capital that is demonstrated though an ingrained sense of connectedness, resourcefulness and resiliency. These communities utilize the talents and resources of their local citizens to invest in

Randy Kuhlman, C.E.O. Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way

economic, social and educational opportunity all. They also have a community optimism that inspires a sense of hope and a “can-do” spirit. Their spirit and optimism produces a community energy that creates inspired leadership and engaged citizens who want to work together to advance community vitality, economic prosperity and overall well-being.

Today, all communities are facing challenges. Cultural, social and economic change is coming at us at a pace faster than ever before and communities are striving to adapt to this fast changing world. The communities that are willing step up to the challenge, provide strong leadership, work together and invest in critical social capital will be the ones that grow and prosper.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way works every day to advance this concept of social capital in Fort Dodge and Webster County. It is a crucial part of our mission and it is reflective of our efforts to develop charitable resources for important community causes, projects and programs. It is demonstrated every day through the willingness of citizens to get involved, donate and volunteer to help our community become a great place to live, work and raise our families.

For more information on how you can help, get involved and support the work of the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way, give us a call at 515-573-3171 or stop in our offices at 24 North 9th Street in downtown Fort Dodge. You can also visit our website: www.fd-foundation.org.