Asset Development: A Framework to Align Economic Development, the Safety Net, and Education in Arizona

Asset poor families, those that cannot sustain themselves without income for at least three months or weather emergencies without falling into the safety net, are consistently vulnerable. Arizona seeks to align its economic development, safety net, and education systems to benefit both its citizens and its economy through an asset development framework. Assets reduce the risk of poverty and reliance on the safety-net, break generational poverty, enable people to start businesses and invest in education. This report explores why assets are important and how social policy has conflicted with asset accumulation; provides evidence of Arizona's asset-poor environment; identifies potential state policy strategies; and outlines a framework for action for system partners.