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The Coral Gables Community Foundation, in partnership with the University of Miami’s Community and Educational Well-Being Research Center, has revealed the findings of its first-ever Community Needs Assessment.
The comprehensive report provides insights into the City of Coral Gables’ strengths and challenges, ensuring that community development efforts address the actual needs and priorities of residents, leading to more meaningful and powerful philanthropy.
Key Takeaways from the Assessment: Residents reported several strengths in Coral Gables, including its historic charm, quality of life, green spaces, sense of community, walkability, public safety, and rich arts and culture. The report also highlighted pressing community needs, with the top five priorities being:
Housing Affordability (38 percent) – The lack of workforce housing is driving economic disparities and limiting diversity within the city.
Local Government (36 percent) – Calls for greater transparency and civility in governance, alongside improved city responsiveness to residents.
Bicycle Safety and Infrastructure (24 percent) – A need for safer bike lanes and education to instill safety practices from a young age.
Climate Resilience (21 percent) – Combating frequent flooding, extreme heat, and storm preparedness through sustainable practices.
Public Education (15 percent) – Improving resources for schools to better prepare students and integrate arts and cultural programs into education.
“This assessment underscores our commitment to listening and responding to the voices of our community,” said Mary Snow, president and CEO of Coral Gables Community Foundation. “By aligning our focus areas with these data-driven insights, we can ensure that our resources are directed where they are needed most, creating lasting, positive change for Coral Gables residents.”
Snow noted that in response to the findings, the Community Foundation is adjusting its giving patterns to prioritize investment in local organizations and coalitions tackling these critical issues.
As a first step, on Feb. 3, Coral Gables Community Foundation will accept Letters of Inquiry (LOI’s) for its Community Giving Program, focusing on projects and organizations tackling the top five priority areas. This new earlier timeline ensures that resources are directed swiftly to where they are most needed. Letters of Inquiry also will be accepted in legacy categories such as Arts and Culture, Historic Preservation and Placemaking, and Social and Human Services.
The annual Community Giving Program awards grants to deserving local non-profit organizations tackling key issues within the Community Foundation’s focus areas, benefiting those who live, work, learn, and play in Coral Gables. Last year, the Foundation awarded 62 new grants with a total value of $229,500 through the Community Giving Program, and — with its Fundholders — committed more than $3 million in grants and scholarships.
“The findings from the Community Needs Assessment will guide the Community Foundation as we collaborate with stakeholders to identify additional strategies for 2025 giving,” Snow said. “Since 1991, with over $20 million invested in the community, Coral Gables Community Foundation has become a trusted leader in delivering nimble and powerful philanthropy through partnerships and donor-advised funds, creating a lasting impact on our City Beautiful.”
To learn more about the Coral Gables Community Needs Assessment and the many ways to partner with the Coral Gables Community Foundation, visit www.gablesfoundation.org.
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