Learn more about Poverty Solutions
Poverty Solutions is a University of Michigan initiative that conducts policy-relevant research aimed at finding new ways to prevent and alleviate poverty and improve economic well-being.
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Poverty Solutions is a University of Michigan initiative that conducts policy-relevant research aimed at finding new ways to prevent and alleviate poverty and improve economic well-being. We aim for this research to inform policy change that make systems work better for people with low incomes.
We view poverty as the result of interlinked systems — housing, education, criminal justice, labor markets — that do not work for people with low incomes. Beyond the poverty line, we also consider economic well-being, refers to people being able to afford to meet their basic needs and have enough savings to weather an emergency.
Such a systems approach puts the emphasis on structural, rather than individual, causes of poverty. We recognize that many of these systems failures are the result of long-term racial and socioeconomic inequalities. Addressing poverty means confronting these disparities and seeking out just, equitable solutions.
By focusing on systems, we look for ways to intervene through action ranging from small scale, community-focused projects to large-scale policy change.
Our ability to collectively fulfill the mission of Poverty Solutions begins with our culture. Here, we believe: everyone deserves to be treated with respect, trust is built, and collaboration leads to a stronger team and stronger outcomes. To foster this culture, we practice respect, trust-building and collaboration by committing to:
- Extend the most generous interpretation of the intentions, words and actions of others.
- Hold ourselves accountable for the impact of our words and actions and seek to make amends when necessary.
- Do what we say we will do, uphold commitments whenever possible, and re-establish expectations when we can't keep our original commitments.
- Be attentive to each other in our time together.
- Reserve judgment, and ask questions as a way to clarify assumptions and solicit diverse points of view, recognizing the limits to our expertise.
- Voice concerns and needs, and affirm colleagues when they do so.
- Set aside time for reflection in our workflows, so we can celebrate our successes and learn from our missteps.
- Learn about the unique skill sets, perspectives, and personal experiences of our teammates through formal and informal interactions that emphasize fun and celebration.
- Regularly revisit and express appreciation for how our individual and collective work advances the organization's mission and strategic goals.
- Proactively check on each other's well-being in the course of our work interactions, being mindful of others' comfort.
How we engage with each other impacts how we engage in partnerships inside and outside the university and in the mentoring of students. By committing to our vision for our internal workplace culture, we are better able to live out our organizational values, resulting in work that has a more widespread, relevant, and meaningful impact on preventing and alleviating poverty.
