Spera Connect

A recent study by Fourth Economy and the Allegheny Conference reveals what many community advocates have long suspected: United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is more than a charity—it’s a powerful economic engine. With an annual investment of $20 million, United Way drives an impressive $211 million in regional economic activity, translating to a 10.5:1 return on investment (ROI). This economic surge is driven by United Way’s focus on housing stability, workforce development, mental health support, ...

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Social impact housing isn’t just a solution to shelter insecurity—it’s a powerful economic engine. This article breaks down how strategic investments in affordable and supportive housing create cascading returns for local governments, investors, and communities alike. By addressing root causes like homelessness, housing instability, and workforce displacement, social impact housing delivers far more than shelter—it generates measurable ROI, reduces public spending, and boosts long-term economic stability ...

Public libraries have long been pillars of community education, digital access, and civic engagement—but in Texas, they’re also an impressive engine of economic return ...

Tackling homelessness requires more than temporary shelter—it demands a dual focus on housing and opportunity. The Jericho Project's model proves that a modest investment can yield a powerful financial and social return. A 250% annual ROI, combined with profound human impact, makes this strategy one of the most effective tools we have in ending chronic homelessness ...

The Chicago after-school program exemplifies how targeted educational initiatives can profoundly impact individual lives and communities. By investing in such programs, society not only fosters the personal growth of its youth but also reaps substantial economic and social returns. These programs are not merely charitable endeavors; they are strategic investments in a brighter, more prosperous future for all ...

Are you a nonprofit leader, grant writer, or program director trying to prove your impact and secure more funding? You're not alone—and we've got something to help. The 2025 Social Impact Benchmark Report is here, offering data-backed insights to help you measure your effectiveness, communicate your value, and make smarter strategic decisions ...

Urban green spaces, encompassing urban forests, parks, and greenbelts, offer a multitude of benefits that extend beyond environmental and aesthetic appeal. They play a significant role in enhancing property values, stimulating local economies, and providing substantial returns on investment (ROI). Understanding these economic advantages is crucial for policymakers, developers, and residents aiming to foster sustainable and prosperous communities ...

​Investing in public education yields substantial social and economic benefits, as detailed in the Education Law Center's report, "Pennsylvania's Best Investment: The Social and Economic Benefits of Public Education." This comprehensive analysis highlights how quality education positively impacts employment rates, crime reduction, public health, and civic participation, ultimately leading to significant economic returns for society ...

​The Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP) conducted a comprehensive analysis titled "The Comparative Costs and Benefits of Programs to Reduce Crime, Version 4.0," evaluating the economic efficiency of various crime reduction programs. By systematically reviewing evaluations from the past 25 years, WSIPP assessed whether the benefits of these programs, measured by their impact on crime reduction and the associated value to taxpayers and crime victims, outweigh their implementation costs ...

Track State Budget Trends with NASBO: The Leading Resource for State Fiscal Data Looking for trusted insights into state government budgeting? The National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) is the go-to resource for public officials, analysts, and fiscal policy professionals who need credible, comprehensive data on state budgets, spending, and policy trends. With decades of expertise, NASBO offers free access to reports, datasets, and analysis that help shape smarter financial planning and policy design ...