The power of art to inspire, comfort, and stretch the imagination is something all people can benefit from—not just those who can find their way to a museum, pay for a concert ticket, or hire a piano teacher for their children. Philanthropy can help increase access, nourish the artistic spirit, and support Vermont's creative economy at a time when it hasn't fully rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read the brief "Arts for All: How philanthropy can make the arts accessible and affordable " »
Vermont needs additional housing of all types. An important piece of the puzzle is the creation of homeownership opportunities for the missing middle—buyers who don't qualify for income-restricted housing programs but can't afford market-rate homes. Philanthropy can help preserve Vermont's high homeownership rate with strategies that target middle income buyers.
Read the brief "Meeting in the Middle: How philanthropy can expand access to homeownership" »
Recidivism is the tendency of a person convicted of a crime to reoffend. In Vermont, over 40 percent of people released from correctional facilities go back on new convictions or violations within three years. Philanthropy can disrupt this destructive cycle and help set up people for success after incarceration.
Read the brief "Another Chance: How philanthropy can reduce recidivism " »
In 2020, a study by the Vermont Futures Project found that after paying for rent, childcare, food, cars, insurance, and an estimated $635 a month in student loans, a couple with one child would have about $75 a month in disposable income. Philanthropy can pave the way for new strategies to minimize debt and increase education attainment.
Read the brief "The Stranglehold of Student Debt: How charitable giving can bring relief" »
Local news outlets contribute to democracy and community vitality, but many are ailing. Philanthropy can help create a new business model for journalism. The newest Insight Hub brief identifies three actions for charitable individuals to take today.
Read the brief "The News Front: Three ways to help local media outlets survive and thrive" »