Communities & Banking
Winter 2012 
Collaborating to Revitalize Northern Forest Tourism
New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine have traditionally trumpeted their own tourist attractions. But today a new, regional approach is proving that collaboration lifts all canoes.
Early Childhood Education: Springfield Tackles a Benchmark
Being able to read at grade level in third grade is correlated with future success. That's the rationale for a unique program currently being tested in Springfield, Massachusetts.
From Burma to Waterbury, Connecticut
Members of a minority group that has long resisted the military government of Burma (Myanmar) are now part of the U.S. State Department's refugee program. Some have made a new life for themselves in Connecticut.
Lead Exposure and Academic Performance
The author's research answers the question, "Can we see improvements in children's cognitive performance as a consequence of their lessened exposure to lead?"
Neighborhoods: Foreclosure's Silent Victims
When a Massachusetts judge halted foreclosures for faulty paperwork, the process ground to a halt statewide. That was good news for homeowners in default, not so good for neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Stabilization: The Rural Story
The author reports on how federal Neighborhood Stabilization funds were disbursed in the rural Northern Tier of the Boston Fed district.
The Disability Housing Market in New England
A new community development financial institution focused on housing for people with disabilities is partnering with groups outside the traditional disability field to help more people live independently.