Study Addresses Poverty in Changing South

A column in today’s News and Observer by Todd Cohen discusses the South’s continued problem with poverty despite the rapid economic and population growth of many areas.

RALEIGH - The South has thrived over the past 25 years, but it also has left the poor behind: despite a booming economy the region suffers from big gaps in economic well-being, education and health for poor families.

Southern philanthropy also has been robust, yet the region's charitable foundations have focused mainly on relieving immediate needs and concentrated their giving in more affluent areas. For the South to thrive in an increasingly competitive global marketplace, its foundations must take the lead in driving the collaboration and investment needed to give the poor better access to good schools, good jobs and good health care.

Cohen cites findings from a new study released by Chapel Hill think-tank MDC Inc.

The problem -- Poverty abides in the South because neither government nor business has been willing to take on the cause of fighting social inequity. Government lacks vision, will and flexibility, and business keeps its eye on profits and market share.

The solution -- MDC concludes that foundations must be more strategic and collaborative, invest in change and work more closely with one another and with government and business to address the causes of social inequity.

Equipping the South to compete effectively in the global marketplace will require foundations in the region to move beyond charity and embrace social change.