Here are the Blandin Foundation's eight dimensions of a healthy community

The Free Press is using these guidelines and measures as a way to rate and suggest improvements to the Mankato regional community.

Economic Opportunity

All people can earn an income that allows them to live with dignity. The economy of the community is sustainable and not dependent on exploiting human beings or depleting the natural environment.

This dimension has a two-fold emphasis. The first is on having economic opportunities that provide for adequate incomes. The second is on long-term viability through renewing and sustaining the human and other resources which create the community's economic advantages.

Life-Long Learning

All ages have access to educational opportunities which enable them to participate in and contribute to the economic, political, social and cultural life of the community to the full extent of their potential.

This perspective is based on a definition of learning as a means of helping people be productive members of their community. It also emphasies the need for a variety of educational opportunities.

Valuing Diversity

People capitalize on the range of human differences in the community and seek ways to utilize those differences for the benefit of the whole community.

Planning and decision-making in voluntary groups, as well as local government, take place in such a away that all people can have an impact on what goes on in the community. The community is welcoming and makes an effort to help everyone feel that they "belong." There is a strong tendency in the community for individuals to help each other and for groups and organizations to work together whenever possible. When conflicts arise, peopel always make efforts to approach them constructively.