America has the desire and resources to improve trust, paving the way for increased prosperity. Allstate’s research highlights that high levels of local engagement can be used to increase trust in each other and our institutions, reversing the decline in trust plaguing countries around the world.
“Trust in government, business and leadership has declined precipitously around the world over the last two decades, threatening the foundation of freedom and economic prosperity,” said Tom Wilson, Chair, President and CEO of The Allstate Corporation. “As one of America’s most trusted brands, we are working to strengthen trust. This research shows that leveraging community involvement to broaden relationships will improve trust and set America apart from the world.”
The national survey reveals that local community engagement is still strong and there is a path to strengthening the “united” part of America.
Americans feel included and optimistic about the future but there is a high level of concern about the cost of living, the state of our country and personal safety.
- Americans are in a good position with two-thirds feeling included, and 74% optimistic about the future of their communities.
- At the same time, however, three-quarters of respondents are concerned about the cost of living, 72% about the state of the country and 64% about the safety of family and loved ones.
- While 59% of respondents say they trust their neighbors, that number drops to 41% for people in the U.S.
Over two-thirds of Americans participate in their local communities and expect to increase their involvement.
- Sixty-eight percent of Americans report being involved in their local community, with a similar number expecting to increase their involvement in the future.
- The U.S. Census Bureau reports that volunteering increased by 20% in 2023, reversing the negative impact of the pandemic. Americans invested 5 billion hours volunteering, equal to a workforce of 2.5 million people with a value of over $167 billion.
- “We see the value created in every community by thousands of community-based organizations,” said Kate Nack, vice president of The Allstate Foundation.
Community participation and trust are highly correlated and mutually reinforcing.
- People with high trust levels are more satisfied with their community, have more social interactions and trust others despite their differences.
- Trust is self-reinforcing – the more we trust, the more we build trust.
Increased levels of trust help communities solve difficult societal problems, creating a path for greater prosperity and personal well-being.
- Higher trust levels improve collaboration, problem solving and individual mental health.
- Seventy-eight percent of respondents with high trust levels are engaged in the community versus 44% of those with low trust levels.
The path to rebuilding trust starts at the individual and local level.
- Increased community interaction, either volunteering, informal support or simply having a conversation, are the foundation for building a trusting relationship.
- All generations and individuals are needed to improve trust. Baby Boomers’ high levels of trust can be leveraged for change. Millennials and Gen X are ready to lead. Gen Z craves more connections.
- “Allstate and The Aspen Institute have embarked on a three-year initiative to improve trust at the local level in order to strengthen our national civic fabric,” said Louise Packard, director of strategic initiatives and leadership at Allstate.
“America’s community roots are sound, and we have the resources, talent and desire to improve trust. Uniting on community engagement will ensure increased prosperity and freedom in local communities and the country,” concluded Wilson.
Discover the latest trends and insights—explore the Business Insights Journal for up-to-date strategies and industry breakthroughs!
