About Us
WHAT IS SOCIAL CAPITAL?
Social capital refers to the connections among people, based on trust, which enhance cooperation for mutual benefit. Studies show that communities with high levels of social capital are likely to have higher educational achievement, better performing governmental institutions, faster economic growth, and less crime and violence. People living in these communities are likely to be happier, healthier, and have a longer life expectancy.
In 2000, a National Social Capital Benchmark Study was conducted by Dr. Robert D. Putnam of Harvard. Winston-Salem was one of 40 sites to participate in this national study on social capital. Based on surveys of 3,000 people nationally and another 26,200 in 40 selected communities throughout the U.S. (including Winston-Salem, Greensboro and Charlotte), the National Social Capital Benchmark Study produced a scorecard showing how each community stacked up compared to expectations based on its demographics.
The survey showed that Winston-Salem had high levels of involvement in faith-based activities and charitable giving. On the other hand, there were a number of weaknesses with regard to social capital, including:
- mistrust among residents, especially among residents who come from different social circles;
- an over-concentration of leadership among traditional leaders;
- a lack of public gathering spaces that encourage informal socializing among all segments of the community; and
- relatively low levels of volunteerism, especially volunteering that involves doing things with people (rather than for people).
These themes were reinforced during a series of ECHO Listening Sessions conducted during the summer of 2003. Participants painted the following picture of how the community should change with regard to social capital:
- Decision-making becomes more inclusive.
- Leadership is intentionally developed throughout the entire community.
- Volunteerism is broadened in terms of opportunities, training, and who is involved.
- Community development and economic development go hand in hand.
- More public gathering places are created, especially spaces that encourage dialogue and interactions among diverse segments of the community.
The ECHO Council was created to impact these specific areas and create avenues for broad community participation in increasing social capital. The Council evolved into ECHO Teams in 2012 to have a greater impact in the community.
