CR Forum
Special reports cover topics pertinent to the Fourth District, including financial education, predatory lending, microenterprise, and immigration trends.
2004
- 12.01.2004
- Individual Development Accounts: An Endangered Wealth Creation Strategy?
- The introduction of the Individual Development Account (IDA) in 1996 opened the door to a new school of thought on ending the cycle of poverty. This innovative tool challenged traditional means of support by asking the question, “What if we can do more good for more people by helping them actively save and build assets than by simply offering cash assistance?” Since then, IDAs have become wildly popular among low-income individuals and families. But can funding keep pace with demand? (PDF)
- 08.01.2004
- Engines of Growth: Why Low-Income Communities Need Small Business
- Housing development has long been a staple for community development practitioners working to revitalize low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Efforts to promote new home construction, homeownership, and affordable housing have been key to urban renewal in many areas. But housing alone is not a panacea; rather, housing must be one part of a broad, holistic approach to community revitalization that also includes small business development. (PDF)