2006 Social Capital Survey for Rochester

A 2006 survey measuring social capital levels in the greater Rochester community show that, while our overall trust levels are lower than in 2000, we’ve become more comfortable with friends of different races and less opposed to interracial marriages. The survey results also show that Rochesterians have become increasingly more active in charitable and social welfare organizations, are more interested in politics and more inclined to be registered voters, and are significantly more involved in arts and cultural organizations than they did in 2000..

The 2006 Social Capital Community Survey was developed by Harvard University Government Professor Robert D. Putnam, author of the book, Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. It is a follow-up to the 2000 Social Capital Community Benchmark Survey, which was also developed by Putnam and conducted in 2000. Financed by foundations throughout the country, including Rochester Area Community Foundation, the 2006 survey allows communities to plan and track their efforts to build social capital.

Details of the survey are explained in the 2006 Social Capital Technical Report  and in the press release  distributed at a press conference in 2007.

If you have questions, please contact Edward J. Doherty, Vice President, Community Programs (585-341-4370).