Category Archives: Data

ERS Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America

Need a quick look at how your county stacks up against the rest of the state? Or maybe you need to generate a quick graphic to accompany a community report. The Atlas of Rural and Small-Town America from USDA-ERS displays statistics on people, jobs, veterans, and county types. Data have been updated to reflect the latest population, poverty, and American Community Survey statistics.

The Value of Government Data

The following information from the Department of Commerce highlights the importance of government data in decision making. May 7, 2015 Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economics and Statistics Administration (ESA) released a new report today entitled, “The Value of the American Community Survey: Smart Government, Competitive Businesses, and Informed Citizens.”  The report shows how the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) is used to accurately direct over $400 billion in federal funds to the communities that need them, and to help businesses and community leaders… Read More →

What Counts: Harnessing Data for America’s Communities

You all know how much I love data. It is indispensable for making good decisions. What Counts: Harnessing Data for America’s Communities from the San Francisco Fed discusses why data is important and how to use it. You can download the book for free from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco or order a print copy. Check it out!

Rural Matters: A Free Online Data Event

Community Commons is sponsoring a free online data event in November. The series features three 19-minute webinars and a dedicated Rural Matters Event Hub.  Topics include the use of data for community assessment, funding applications, and policy change in rural communities. Register for any or all events below: Assessing the Rural Community    Thursday, November 6  10:30-11:00am Central Enhancing Your Funding Proposals   Wednesday, November 12 1:00-1:30pm Central Making the Case for Policy Change   Monday, November 17 3:00-3:30pm Central All events will be recorded for later viewing.