How can we use data as a tool for change? It has been proven to uncover hidden struggles, and it is a map that can lead communities toward a better quality of life. This was the core message of the recent webinar hosted by the National League of Cities (NLC) and the Social Progress Imperative (SPI), where experts explored how rigorous data and insights are helping leaders identify problems, push for solutions, and drive real impact in their communities.
One of the biggest takeaways from the webinar was that data isn’t just about collecting information, rather it is about ensuring that information is accessible, understandable, and most importantly, actionable. In this discussion, it was discovered how various local governments, organizations, and advocates have been using data to address critical issues such as mental health services, inequality, and housing insecurity. When disparities amongst communities are laid out, it becomes impossible to ignore them and even harder to dismiss.
It’s essential that data directly shows the needs of the people that it’s meant to help if we want it to have a lasting impact. For example, The U.S. Progress Map offers localized, detailed insights into where progress has advanced and where it is lagging behind. When leaders have this data at their fingertips, they can address problems with targeted, evidence-based solutions instead of relying on broad, one-size-fits-all policies that don’t work in every community.
At its core, the message is clear: Data should be a tool for action. The U.S. Progress Map is a tool that helps communities navigate the gap between knowing and doing. When data is used strategically, it can be a powerful engine that ignites lasting change. Knowledge can be power if it is acted upon, equality is embraced, and the focus is on real-life implementation.
Watch the webinar recording to learn key insights from our panelists:
Coreata Houser - Senior Deputy Director, Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity | City of Birmingham, AL
Emmanuel Frimpong Boamah - U.S. Insights & Partnerships Manager | Social Progress Imperative
Katie Kalvoda - Founder | Advance OC
Laura Patiño - Chief Resilience Officer for the City of San Antonio.
Lydia Murray - Managing Director, State & Local Housing Assistance Leader | Deloitte
Zachary Markovits - Vice President and Local Practice Lead | Results for America
Moderated by: Marcia Thompson, Esq. - Assistant Professor + Chair, Criminal Justice | Aurora University
How can we use data as a tool for change? It has been proven to uncover hidden struggles, and it is a map that can lead communities toward a better quality of life. This was the core message of the recent webinar hosted by the National League of Cities (NLC) and the Social Progress Imperative (SPI), where experts explored how rigorous data and insights are helping leaders identify problems, push for solutions, and drive real impact in their communities.
One of the biggest takeaways from the webinar was that data isn’t just about collecting information, rather it is about ensuring that information is accessible, understandable, and most importantly, actionable. In this discussion, it was discovered how various local governments, organizations, and advocates have been using data to address critical issues such as mental health services, inequality, and housing insecurity. When disparities amongst communities are laid out, it becomes impossible to ignore them and even harder to dismiss.
It’s essential that data directly shows the needs of the people that it’s meant to help if we want it to have a lasting impact. For example, The U.S. Progress Map offers localized, detailed insights into where progress has advanced and where it is lagging behind. When leaders have this data at their fingertips, they can address problems with targeted, evidence-based solutions instead of relying on broad, one-size-fits-all policies that don’t work in every community.
At its core, the message is clear: Data should be a tool for action. The U.S. Progress Map is a tool that helps communities navigate the gap between knowing and doing. When data is used strategically, it can be a powerful engine that ignites lasting change. Knowledge can be power if it is acted upon, equality is embraced, and the focus is on real-life implementation.
Watch the webinar recording to learn key insights from our panelists:
Coreata Houser - Senior Deputy Director, Department of Innovation & Economic Opportunity | City of Birmingham, AL
Emmanuel Frimpong Boamah - U.S. Insights & Partnerships Manager | Social Progress Imperative
Katie Kalvoda - Founder | Advance OC
Laura Patiño - Chief Resilience Officer for the City of San Antonio.
Lydia Murray - Managing Director, State & Local Housing Assistance Leader | Deloitte
Zachary Markovits - Vice President and Local Practice Lead | Results for America
Moderated by: Marcia Thompson, Esq. - Assistant Professor + Chair, Criminal Justice | Aurora University
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