The Rapides Foundation dedicates 25 percent of its funding to this priority area, which includes work in economic development and civic engagement – important factors that contribute to an individual’s health and well-being.

One of our objectives in this priority area is to improve economic opportunity and family income. The Foundation’s interest in this area correlates the ability to earn a higher wage with other measures such as home ownership and ability to purchase health insurance. Research shows that people who achieve these goals are in much better health than those who are unable to do so.

Our second objective is to enhance civic and community opportunities for more effective leaders and organizations.  We recognize that improving the overall health of individuals requires investment in both new and existing organizational structures within a community. Through these partnerships, individuals, nonprofits, government and businesses are better able to work together and target improvements in the standard of living for all community members.