Civic Nebraska
Discover the State of Nebraska's Civic Health
Unpack the latest data on trust, engagement, volunteering, and civic knowledge for a stronger Nebraska.
Why it Matters
Nebraska ranks top‑10 nationally in social connectedness and civic participation—yet reveals stark age and income disparities.
The Index explores four vital dimensions: Trust, Access, Action, and Knowledge.
Key Takeaways
Civic Trust
1/3 of Nebraskans socialize regularly with neighbors (6th in the nation). However, only about 58% of rural Nebraskans believe they can shape the future of their communities.
Civic Access
Nebraskans rank 6th nationally for belonging to community groups; yet rural Nebraskans report low satisfaction (25%) with cultural opportunities.
Civic Action
40% of Nebraskans volunteer in one way or another, putting our state in the top 3; however voter turnout has dropped in key areas (-9.4% for women, -10.l8% for rural voters, and -16.2% for middle-income earners).
Civic Knowledge
About 70% of Nebraskans consume news frequently, yet many counties are “news deserts” and either have very few or no local reporters/outlets.
Civic Trust
1/3 of Nebraskans socialize regularly with neighbors (6th in the nation). However, only about 58% of rural Nebraskans believe they can shape the future of their communities.
Civic Access
Nebraskans rank 6th nationally for belonging to community groups; yet rural Nebraskans report low satisfaction (25%) with cultural opportunities.
Civic Action
40% of Nebraskans volunteer in one way or another, putting our state in the top 3; however voter turnout has dropped in key areas (-9.4% for women, -10.l8% for rural voters, and -16.2% for middle-income earners).
Civic Knowledge
About 70% of Nebraskans consume news frequently, yet many counties are “news deserts” and either have very few or no local reporters/outlets.