From Knowledge Center

Contents 1 DataHaven Guide to Grantwriting and Using Data 1.1 I need data sources! 1.2 How do I access Census Data? 1.3 I am concerned with Cultural Competency. Do you have a guide for me? 1.4 I would like to know more about community organizing. 1.5 Where can I learn more about using data? 1.6 Can you help with grant writing or needs assessment? 1.7 What is Results Based Accountability?

DataHaven Guide to Grantwriting and Using Data

DataHaven Guide to Grantwriting and Using Data
Type Annotated List of Resources Format Website Author DataHaven Year 2011 Related Sectors Civic Vitality Topic Health Equity Alliance Organization DataHaven

Data is a powerful tool for community improvement and advocacy, but like any tool it should be used with care. Some people distrust all data due to the cynical or dishonest manipulation of data by those with an "ax to grind."

But good data has power - the power to define community conditions and document trends objectively. While every presenter or reviewer of data-based analyses must be ever watchful, there is no question about the importance and transformative power of good data in our efforts to improve our communities.

I need data sources!

Please explore our Knowledge Center. The links on our main page will take you to a variety of resources about community indicators and data within each "sector" area (e.g., economy, health, public safety). DataHaven is available to help if you can't find what you need - just drop us a line.

How do I access Census Data?

The U.S. Census provides a rich array of demographic and economic data. Only a small number of these indicators have been included here as these are readily available at several national sites. Click here for a guide to accessing Census data.

DataHaven endeavors to present the best available original data with clear definitions for everyone to evaluate for themselves. We also provide information on the implications of the data (accessed by clicking on the Indicator Name) and many useful links to other web sites to get you started in your research. We seek to build a growing constituency of empowered, informed data users who understand and can present accurate data persuasively in support of their work or cause. If you want to get involved in helping to expand the scope and content of DataHaven, contact us at info@ctdatahaven.org.

Please also see our page on Demographic Data and Indicators.

I am concerned with Cultural Competency. Do you have a guide for me?

Please see the DataHaven Cultural Competency Guide.

I would like to know more about community organizing.

Please see our resource page on Community Organizing.

Where can I learn more about using data?

There are several sites which provide excellent background information on terms and definitions related to the collection, analysis, and use of data.

One of the better sites for help in using data is the Greater New Orleans Community Data Center. Like DataHaven, GNOCDC is a member of the Urban Institute's National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership (NNIP).

Can you help with grant writing or needs assessment?

Data is a key component of grantwriting and needs assessment. The DataHaven Grants and Needs Assessment page provides guidance and links. Among the largest sources of grants in Connecticut are Community Foundations, United Ways, and local, state and federal governments. These organizations typically offer a range of grants ranging from small neighborhood grants to implement one-time events to multi-year grants to encourage the growth of successful organizations.

Please contact DataHaven to request additional information, or if you have suggestions for resources to add to this page, such as lists of funding sources. We hope to build a more comprehensive source for grantwriting this year.

What is Results Based Accountability?

Please see our page on this subject.