Investing in Human Capital: A Foundation for Lasting Prosperity

The United States must invest in expanding the supply of models that directly reduce poverty, writes JFF President and CEO Marlene B. Seltzer in this commentary for Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity, a foundation-led, non-partisan initiative aimed at ensuring that political leaders take significant actions to reduce poverty and increase opportunity. The U.S. also must replicate and adapt what works on a scale that responds to the national need, using public policy to promote that expansion.

Seltzer cites a number of JFF partnerships that provide both models of practice and precedents for scaling up success. She concludes, “We must think about education and skill investments, in both our young people and adults, as a single pipeline, leading to individuals who can support their families and help communities thrive. Our nation’s livelihood depends on it.”