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" »
Over the last 35 years, Vermont's state government, local communities, and charitable individuals have partnered to successfully restore many significant structures and proved that the process revitalizes downtowns and village centers, spurs economic development, and promotes tourism. But there's more to be done. This brief shares three actions to improve and strengthen communities through historic preservation.
"Local government—and local democracy in America—is one of the most well-coordinated and most successful volunteer efforts in the history of the world." But there's no question that government leadership is getting more complicated. Even at the local level, you see fewer people wanting to take on this challenge, "...and that's concerning," notes Ted Brady, executive director of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns.
Afghan refugees arriving in Vermont need assistance acclimating to a new country. Vermont nonprofits and volunteers are stepping up, but more help is needed, including private resources to augment the patchwork of federal and state programs providing services and aid.
Read the brief "New Neighbors: Three ways giving can support Afghan refugees in Vermont" »