Bridges Out of Poverty

  • Resources Beyond Money

    Emotional, mental, spiritual, physical, support systems, relationships/role models, knowledge of hidden rules. The more resources a person has, the more resilient and successful they can be.

  • Language and Story Structure

    Casual register vs. formal register. People in poverty may use episodic, circular storytelling; understanding this helps communication.

  • Support vs. Rescue

    Emphasizes building individual capacity, not creating dependency. Avoiding savior mindsets in social work and education.

  • Bridges Constructs

    Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World – a companion workshop curriculum to help individuals analyze their own lives and move forward.

    Community Sustainability Model – building bridges among all classes for lasting systemic change.

  • Health and Human Services

    Trauma-informed care through a poverty lens. Working respectfully with clients from different backgrounds.

  • Workplace & Economic Development

    Helping employers support low-income employees. Career building for economically disadvantaged individuals.

  • Community Mobilization

    Building collaboratives with people from all economic classes. Inclusive community decision-making.

  • Education

    Strategies for working with students from poverty. Encouraging persistence and academic achievement.

  • "Bridges Out of Poverty" Training

    For educators, nonprofits, community leaders, healthcare workers, law enforcement, etc. Often includes scenario analysis, strategy development, and personal reflection.

  • "Getting Ahead" Class

    A curriculum for individuals in poverty to explore their own lives and develop future stories.