Using Data to Drive Action on Behalf of Children and Families

Summary

This brief tells how data shaped and strengthened efforts to build financial stability among low-income rural families in west central Minnesota. It highlights Annie E. Casey’s Rural Family Economic Success framework and is part of the Foundation’s Strengthening Rural Families publication series.​

Table of Contents

• The Importance of Good Data
• Helping Area Families “Keep it”
• Helping Families “Earn it”
• How to Make Data Work for Rural Initiatives
• The Next Steps

Key Takeaway

The Rural Family Economic Success framework yields big changes in small town Minnesota

West central Minnesota is a nine-county region defined by beautiful lakes and fertile farmlands as well as towns and families struggling to get ahead. This brief shows how good data drove smart decision-making in the towns to help these low-income families not just reach — but maintain — financial stability.