Key Issues

Employment is at the center of poverty reduction, and yet there are complex reasons people remain unemployed or out of the labor force entirely. Employment solutions need to consider myriad barriers to employment, including lack of educational attainment or specialized skills, a history of involvement with the criminal justice system, physical and cognitive disabilities, child care needs, and lack of transportation to work, for example. 

Below is an overview of the numerous research projects supported by Poverty Solutions that aim to promote a better understanding of the types of employment solutions that could make a difference. Poverty Solutions also coordinates a SummerWorks youth employment program in partnership with the Washtenaw County Office for Community and Economic Development and Michigan Works! Southeast, and we partner with the City of Detroit to support a youth workforce development policy fellowship.