Bridges Out of Poverty: Strategies for Professionals and Communities

Bridges Out of Poverty is a unique and powerful tool designed specifically for social, health, and legal services professionals. Based in part on Dr. Ruby K. Payne's myth shattering A Framework for Understanding Poverty, Bridges reaches out to the millions of service providers and businesses whose daily work connects them with the lives of people in poverty. In a highly readable format you'll find case studies, detailed analysis, helpful charts and exercises, and specific solutions you and your organization can implement right now to: Redesign programs to better serve people you work with; Build skill sets for management to help guide employees; Upgrade training for front-line staff like receptionists, case workers, and managers; Improve treatment outcomes in health care and behavioral health care; Increase the liklihood of moving from welfare to work. If your business, agency, or organization works with people from poverty, only a deeper understanding of their challenges-and strengths-will help you partner with them to create opportunities for success.

Co-authors Dr. Ruby K. Payne, Philip DeVol, and Terie Dreussi Smith each brings a wealth of insight and varied professional expertise to the creation of this book. Payne is the leading U.S. expert on the mindsets of the different economic classes. DeVol is a highly respected program designer and expert in community sustainability. Dreussi Smith is a gifted professional educator, trainer and consultant. Their combined experience and talents help set Bridges apart as the go-to resource for businesses and organizations seeking to improve services, opportunities, and outcomes for people in poverty.