The information in our study covers the Wichita, Kan., Metropolitan Statistical Area.
In each community, the Knight Soul of the Community study identified factors that emotionally attach residents to where they live
The purpose of Knight Soul of the Community is to provide communities a roadmap for understanding what attaches residents to their community and why it matters – not to be prescriptive on what communities should do with the information. However, the findings do point to some general implications and suggestions, some of which the community may be already undertaking, or provide new opportunities for consideration.
From The Christian Science Monitor:
If you sometimes stop and wonder why you donate to your local school’s annual fundraiser, help plant trees on your town’s main drag or offer free hot cocoa at every street fair, the answer is because you're either very generous or you know what's good for your local economy.
Wichita residents are feeling less positive about the community than a year ago, according to new study results.
The second year of the three-year Gallup/Knight Foundation "Soul Of the Community" survey shows our sense of passion and loyalty to the community has slumped.
Anne Corriston is Knight’s program director for Wichita.
First, a disclaimer. I have lived in Wichita my entire life, so I certainly can't call myself an outsider.
And I love my life here, so I'm already very emotionally attached to my community. Here's my Top Ten List of things I love about Wichita:
Great schools, affordable health care and safe streets all help create strong communities. But is there something deeper that draws people to a city – that makes them want to put down roots and build a life?