They are the Dow Jones, if you will, of the soul of Connecticut. When the human condition is in good health, growth is possible. When it is on a downward trajectory, interventions might be necessary. Without a democracy tool kit to assess how the public is faring, we have little means to determine budget or policy priorities. Rhetoric and passion can fill the gap.
Public policy seems remote and civic engagement is weakened.
There are increasing national trends towards state and local decision making which render such an index invaluable to neighborhood discourse. This document offers a guideline for asking questions and determining goals for the quality of life in our state. It is for all who live in Connecticut. With concise, accurate reportage, we can link our values with facts and encourage our elected leaders to steer the social health of our state with care and direction. The storyeller figure symbolizes the values of the Memorial Fundeducating, supporting and inspiring our childlen.