Whether you do a lot or a little, it is worth the effort

We have now lived 58 years in this country since the War on Poverty was declared. Whether or not it has been a success is arguable to some, but it is not an argument you want to have with people who struggle each day because of the violence and scarcity surrounding them.

It has not been successful for one major reason: we have looked to others to make a difference in our communities. Many of us have volunteered or made contributions, and that is helpful. But it is not all we would do if our children or loved ones lived each day in the poverty that millions of our neighbors endure. In fact, there is a daily struggle for food, clothing, housing, and safety in nearly every zip code in the U.S.

For decades, I have talked with leaders in every sector and heard of their desire for a better way to address the economic instability that plagues people in their communities. But, more importantly, I have listened to people who have endured the pain of poverty.

Our National Plan to End Poverty is the culmination of decades of research, on-the-ground programming, and conversations with people across this country. What stands out the most is that our ability to end poverty mirrors our ability to come together to focus on our shared humanity rather than our differences of opinion.

Ending poverty is realistic, despite what many may say. And it is not “rocket science,” despite our lack of progress as a country. It is simply a matter of looking around and helping individuals and families in your town or region to have what so many of us take for granted: safe neighborhoods, effective schools, and access to businesses and health care. Whether you do a lot or a little to make that happen, your impact on your fellow human beings can be significant.