- Value [1] People's Strengths
- Since 2001, FII has demonstrated that investing in people's strengths and initiative delivers more powerful, sustainable,
and cost effective outcomes for low-income families than our current system. Our strength-based approach — as old and as radical
as our democracy — is inspired by the historical successes of poor communities in the U.S.
- Value [2] Working Together
- To reduce poverty and create more social and economic mobility nation-wide we need an approach that encourages people to work
together, offers resources in response to initiative, and keeps low-income people in the driver's seat. FII has tested this
approach with a sample of low-income families across the country and the results are powerful.
- Value [3] FII Principles
- How is FII Different? Control. Choice. Community. Over the last decade, the Family Independence Initiative (FII) has proven
that low-income communities can increase their economic and social mobility when they're in environments that support self-determination
and mutual support, and where access to resources is determined by strengths not deficits. This approach is in sharp contrast
to the five decades-old support system of government and non-profit human services. Our current "safety net" system is based
on people's needs rather than their strengths. While this approach is critical for those in crisis, it fails to provide a
springboard toward economic security. Developing a new system of benefits based on self-determination and initiative for those
wishing to leave or avoid welfare will not only reduce the cost of current approaches, but will add to the economic strength
of the country. Our approach is different because it is based on the following principles: * Reward and encourage initiative
* Recognize and invest in resident leadership and solutions * Honor community social connections and mutuality * Respond to
the feedback of low-income consumers
- Value [4] Control
- Value [5] Choice
- Value [6] Community
- Value [7] Reward
- Value [8] Encouragement
- Value [9] Initiative
- Value [10] Social Connections
- Value [11] Mutuality
- Value [12] Feedback
- Value [13] Low-Income Consumers
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