The Power of Trust: Unlocking Optimism and Potential

At the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Business Solves conference, Wilson shared that trust is a cornerstone of freedom, innovation, and prosperity. Without it, collaboration falters and progress stalls. 

Rebuilding Trust from the Ground Up 

Wilson warned that distrust is eroding the social fabric that underpins democracy and economic vitality: only 41% of Americans trust others to do what’s right.   

“Trust is freedom in itself,” he said. If we don’t trust each other, “we won't listen to each, we won’t experiment, and we need to share different views to win.” 

To reverse this trend, Allstate has partnered with the Aspen Institute to launch the Alliance for Social Trust, a national initiative to strengthen community bonds and promote civic engagement. With a $5 million commitment, the Alliance will fund Trust and Practice Awards, grants that support local and virtual collaborations across generations and sectors. Each project must bring together at least three organizations working to advance civic engagement, volunteerism, or bridge-building efforts. 

From Negativity to Authentic Connection 

Wilson identified two key pathways to rebuilding trust: restoring relationships and amplifying the positive. Drawing from Allstate’s research, he noted that while public discourse often centers on division, most Americans remain hopeful: 74% believe in the future of their communities. 

He warned of the “trap of negativity,” a collective habit of consuming and spreading divisive content that fuels anxiety and erodes optimism. “It’s not about ignoring reality,” he explained. “Authentic trust is created by relationships with reciprocity and predictability.”  

That authenticity, Wilson emphasized, is essential to bridging divides and creating meaningful collaboration. “Restoring trust is a door we have to go through if we're going to address the many concerns that Americans have, and it's necessary for collaboration, for innovation and for creating solutions that work.” 

He reminded the audience that America’s greatest achievements have always been built on a foundation of trust and innovation: “America has succeeded by innovating and by trusting each other, and we need to get back to that foundation,” he said.  

Leadership in a Time of Declining Trust 

Rebuilding trust, Wilson argued, requires courageous leadership, leaders who can guide others to “go someplace they would not go by themselves.”He called on the attendees to use their influence to mobilize resources, rebuild local relationships, and avoid the trap of negativity, ultimately helping restore trust in America. 

Wilson’s message was clear: rebuilding trust is not a task for one company or one community alone; it is a shared responsibility that begins with everyday actions. By choosing optimism, fostering connection, and leading with authenticity, he urged business leaders to help restore the foundation on which progress depends. 

“Let's make the world better together, one relationship, one positive thought at a time,” Wilson concluded.