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For immediate release:
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Coalition Undertakes Community Indicators Study
Utica, NY – Three local community organizations working together to identify and meet the area’s most pressing needs undertook the first step in a Community Indicators study today. The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc., Mohawk Valley EDGE and United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area are working together as initial partners in the Leadership Alliance for a Vital Community (LAVC) on this project, the results of which will inform each organization’s work and be shared with the entire community.
Community indicator studies provide objective snapshots of an area’s quality of life.
This is an opportunity to engage in a community-wide conversation about the current state of the Mohawk Valley region and how to respond collectively to issues and opportunities that we face. The indicator categories are arts and culture, economic self-sufficiency, economy, education, environment, health, housing, public safety, technology and transportation.
The Herkimer and Oneida County Indicators study in particular will help the community develop and focus on shared goals toward increasing its economic viability, well-being and sustainability. LAVC believes that with this information, organizations and individuals will form partnerships and take action to build a vital community.
Peggy O’Shea, president and CEO of The Community Foundation, said, “We are confident that this study will provide us with useful – and crucial – information. Our mission is to improve the lives of the residents of Herkimer and Oneida counties, and we believe that this study will help us identify the areas where we can accomplish that most effectively.”
Phil Hayne, executive director of United Way, echoed this sentiment. “The current valid data that this study will provide will enable United Way to meet our mission of promoting individual well being, strengthening families and improving the quality of life in our community by objectively communicating the outcomes of our efforts throughout Herkimer and Oneida counties.”
EDGE President Steve DiMeo added, “We believe this project will grow points of distinction for the Mohawk Valley. It is important for EDGE to align with this dynamic partnership and establish common goals as we work together to strengthen our community.”
Today, experts in the 10 indicator areas met to review and comment on the potential Herkimer and Oneida County Indicators to be selected, ensuring that LAVC is compiling information upon which the community can act.
The purpose of LAVC is to strengthen a healthy, vibrant community through collaborative leadership that identifies significant community issues, builds regional consensus, creates a shared vision and is a catalyst for change. The three organizations currently involved have taken the lead because of a shared interest in this community indicators study, and the action that can be taken to improve our community based on that information.
http://www.oneidacountycourier.com/utica-new-york-news/coalition-undertakes-community-indicators-study/
Contact: Mary Rizzo (EDGE)
at 315-338-0393
(mrizzo@mvedge.org)
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