The 2009 Civic Health Index, set to be released at the NCoC Annual Conference September 9, will examine the relationship between financial health and civic health, including ways civic engagement has increased or diminished in response to the economic crisis.

Historically, a down economy means a decline in civic engagement—the Great Depression saw a recession of civic activity as individuals scaled back their involvement in order to take care of their families during challenging times. The 2009 CHI anticipates that will not be the case this go-round. The way individuals are responding to their neighbors in times of challenge has been garnering major media attention lately, specifically in highlighting ways people are stepping up with a community attitude that shines light on a difficult time and says “we will get through this together.”

The CHI measures civic progress across 40 indicators of civic life. The 2008 CHI found 33 percent of individuals attended a community meeting during the year and 39 percent worked with others to improve something. We hope this year’s Index numbers will show increased participation as citizens are stepping up to address local challenges they feel are not able to be met by local institutions due to cuts in staff and budget.

Our 2009 survey instrument is in the field and this year, is asking economy-specific questions such as:
• Have you given money, food, or shelter to someone who is not in your family?
• Compared to last year, have you cut back or increased the time you spend volunteering, participating in groups, or doing the other civic activities
• Would you be willing to work less hours at your place of employment so others don’t have to be laid off?
• How much confidence do you have in your federal/state/local government to spend economic stimulus money responsibly?


In addition to our national report, NCoC will be producing localized reports in six states: California, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Hampshire and Ohio.

To learn more about the 2009 CHI and what we hope to accomplish, read the commentaries from NCoC Executive Director David B. Smith, and Chairman of the NCoC Board of Advisors, John Bridgeland.

We would also like to hear from you—in what ways are you or those in your community stepping up to address community issues in spite (or because) of the economy?