Understanding the Vital Conditions
When we look at the overall wellbeing of our Northeast Wisconsin communities, we can look to the 7 Vital Conditions to know whether or not each of our communities is flourishing and reaching its full potential. The United States Government and many communities across the United States are moving to measuring these vital conditions. If all conditions are strong, communities can thrive because there will not be as many emergencies for basic needs. Think of fewer people dealing with lack of affordable housing, and fewer people contemplating suicide, for example. Below are the 7 Vital Conditions, along with an explanation of each.
In the most recent research in the Northeast Wisconsin region, Belonging + Civic Muscle is the number one identified need for our communities to thrive. In order to succeed with this vital condition, people need to feel that they are an active and valued part of their community, with the power to help shape its future.
Basic Needs for Health + Safety is the number two need identified in the most recent research and includes access to fresh air and water, nutritious food, a stable home and access to healthcare services.
A Thriving Natural World means clean air, water, and land that is free from dangers and gives us a way to connect with nature.
Lifelong Learning provides ongoing access to quality education from early childhood to adulthood, ensuring that we are all set up for success and have a chance to reach our full potential.
Humane Housing means having safe, secure, affordable and consistent places to live.
Meaningful Work + Wealth includes well-paying, fulfilling jobs, financial security for our whole life, and wealth to pass on to future generations.
Reliable Transportation ensures access to work, school, healthcare, retail, and other needs of daily life.
If any of the Vital Conditions suffers, a community will begin to see things like illness, unemployment, homelessness, loneliness, food insecurity, and more. Check out this video our colleagues in Delaware created about the importance of these Vital Conditions in all of our communities.