In 2014, a national economic mobility study by Harvard economist Raj Chetty revealed that Charlotte ranked 50th out of the 50 largest metro areas in the United States in economic mobility — meaning that many born into poverty in the Charlotte region were likely to stay in poverty.
In response, the city formed a task force of community members, foundations, nonprofits and banks. In 2017, the task force issued a report with recommendations and strategies to improve Charlotte’s economic mobility. Leading On Opportunity, which is an initiative based at Foundation for the Carolinas that works with community partners to improve economic mobility in the Charlotte region, is working to implement the ideas in that report.
On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia sat down with Leading On Opportunity’s executive director, Sherri Chisholm, to discuss:
How Charlotte is doing in executing the task force’s recommendations to make progress on economic mobility.
The key determinants measured in Leading on Opportunity’s economic mobility tool — called the Opportunity Compass.
The strategies being implemented to make progress.
How to keep the city focused on such a long-term journey.
What funders are learning from the Opportunity Compass.
Chisholm’s background and what led her to Charlotte.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Sherri Chisholm.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Checking in on Charlotte's economic mobility, with Sherri Chisholm