CHICAGO — People like where they live for any number of reasons, but there are several stand-out qualities that ignite residents’ passion for their communities — and how the area is dealing with the recession isn’t one of them, according to a report released Tuesday by Gallup and the Knight Foundation.
Residents are most attached to their communities when they have fun places to gather, there’s a welcoming atmosphere and there are beautiful and green spaces to enjoy, according to the “Soul of the Community” survey. The study looked at 26 communities, including Macon, and surveyed a random sample of more than 10,000 people earlier this year.
Great schools, affordable health care and safe streets all help create strong communities. But is there something deeper that draws people to a city – that makes them want to put down roots and build a life?