The Foundation for MetroWest, a community foundation serving the 33 cities and towns identified as MetroWest (including Hopkinton), is embarking on a significant community needs assessment project. Known as Impact MetroWest, this initiative uses available data and community voice to assess strengths and challenges within the communities to build awareness and drive change. When completed, the foundation envisions the dedicated website and full report will be an asset to nonprofits in the region, community members, city and state officials and community leaders.

During the first phase of the project, which is already underway, the independent research organization Center for Governmental Research (CGR) will collect and compile comprehensive data about the MetroWest region, providing an accurate picture of the current needs and strengths of the area. All this information will available to the public this fall through a dedicated, interactive website, Impact MetroWest, and will house municipal and/or county-level data coupled with important analysis, interpretation and trends.

“We are thrilled to be launching Impact MetroWest,” said Jay Kim, chief operating officer of the Foundation for MetroWest. “We believe it is vital to understand the needs and strengths of our communities, both with the data and the voice of the community, to help us make informed and focused decisions as we collaborate with donors, businesses, and nonprofits to improve the lives of everyone that lives or works in our region. We hope this tool helps us highlight the strengths and challenges in our local communities to drive conversation and change for a better future for all.”

The Foundation for MetroWest is asking that anyone who lives or works in the area participate in a short survey. The community survey is a significant element of the project and will provide crucial community voice to Impact MetroWest. The survey is available in three languages (English, Spanish and Portuguese) and all responses are collected by a third party and will remain completely anonymous.

By completing this survey, participants will help their community be strongly represented in this project and provide an accurate picture of the strengths and challenges in their backyard.

For more information, visit www.foundationformetrowest.org/ImpactMetroWest.