The 2017 Veterans Civic Health Index reaffirms that Veterans volunteer, assist neighbors, join civic groups, vote, and engage public officials at rates higher than their non-veteran counterparts. This report is produced in partnership with Got Your 6, American Express, and Macy’s Inc.
Launched in 2015, the Veterans Civic Health Index (VCHI) is the first report of its kind to examine the civic health of America’s veterans. When veterans return home, their multifaceted contributions as engaged volunteers, neighbors, and citizens in turn enhance our nation’s overall civic health. The VCHI has become an essential resource for demonstrating how investing in our country’s veterans brings strength to all of our communities. The 2017 VCHI affirms for the third year in a row that veterans volunteer, assist neighbors, join civic groups, vote, and engage public officials at rates higher than their non-veteran counterparts.
Click here to download the 2017 Veterans Civic Health Index
Last year, the VCHI took a closer look at civic engagement in Baltimore, a focus of national media attention, and offered recommendations specific to the 2016 election cycle. This year, we take a closer look at how grassroots veteran organizations large and small rushed to the service of millions of Americans affected by natural disasters throughout 2017.
Goals of this Report
- Foster understanding about the civic strengths of the veteran population;
- Empower veterans to lead a resurgence of civic engagement across the country;
- Inspire non-veterans to engage in their communities alongside veterans;
- Explore veterans’ contributions to natural disaster relief and recovery.