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.

All children have access to basic knowledge and school systems
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.
Higher education is a critical pathway to economic mobility, yet many students, particularly those from underserved communities, struggle to complete their degrees. The City University of New York’s (CUNY) Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) has emerged as a game-changing initiative, significantly increasing college graduation rates and providing a scalable model for nationwide replication.
According to a national study conducted by the Institute for Social Research and the School of Public Health at the University of Michigan, every $1 invested in Boys & Girls Clubs returns $9.60 in benefits to communities. This return on investment (ROI) is driven by higher academic achievement, lower crime rates, reduced substance abuse, and increased earnings for club members and their families. Let’s explore the key reasons why Boys & Girls Clubs are transforming lives and creating lasting social and economic impact.
The Minnesota Catholic Conference’s report, “Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota,” reveals the Church’s substantial contributions to the state’s economy and social fabric, with an annual economic impact exceeding $5 billion.