The Index is the latest tool in a series of products and programs that United Ways have to stimulate dialogue among key community stakeholders. The Index is being introduced now as United Way and community decision-makers set their caring agendas for the coming year. UWA plans to update the index on an annual basis to ensure the information is current and relevant for community building efforts. The United Way State of Caring Index is unique because it encompasses multiple issues for all states and the nation at large. The United Way State of Caring Index is one of the few systematic ways to measure the needs of Americans and their capacity to care for one another.
Most indices focus either on a single state or on a single topic area.
The United Way State of Caring Index combines national geographic coverage with a broad base of issues. The United Way State of Caring Index was designed to convey the fundamental interconnectedness of human well-being. The 32 indicators relate closely to the community building work that local United Ways have already been undertaking in their communities. The Index is a valuable tool for United Way member organizations and their partners in education, business, government and the non-profit sector, who are working to improve the quality of life in the communities they serve. It can be used to show how social and economic well being has increased or decreased over time and determine areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.