Community and economic development professionals in the South Bend-Elkhart area want to know how people feel about living in their region.
The South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership recently launched its inaugural Belonging Survey meant to gain insight from their region’s residents. The survey will explore residents living experiences, perspectives on representation in leadership positions, and needs from the community as it relates to a feeling of belonging.
The survey is for residents of Elkhart, Marshall, or St. Joseph County and respondents may enter to win a $250 Visa gift card.
The survey is based on models from public and private sector and educational institutes and is being administered by the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership. The survey is aimed at capturing key concepts related to belonging and income trends analyzed across several variables including race, gender, geography, industry and is being done in partnership with the South Bend-based market research firm Vennli.
The survey’s goals include:
- Establishing a baseline to give an accurate perception of the current state of inclusion and belonging within the South Bend – Elkhart region.
- Find opportunities for improvement by leveraging powerful analytics to see where regional citizens are having different experiences and the areas where we can have the greatest impact.
- Drive data-based change in the region. With the insights from the survey, the partnership will provide recommendations and programming to regional employers and community leaders that is reflective of what is learned through the respondents.
The survey is open through April 16 and can be accessed through the partnership’s website.
