BuRSST Strategies

BuRSST for Prosperity has identified three strategies it will work on to reduce poverty for low-income residents, which will design, lead and implement lasting community change.

Building Community Capacity

Identify, develop and mobilize community assets with inclusive decision making by connecting and engaging the low-income community.

Action Steps:

Community residents joining BuRSST committees to influence priorities and strategies
Establish and implement partnerships with community and faith-based organizations, local businesses, government agencies and public officials to address income and asset opportunities for low-income BuRSST residents
Assist community residents to assume leadership roles influencing poverty reduction strategies
Promote language and culture skills of BuRSST residents as an economic asset to employers creating greater access and awareness to career and employment opportunities

How will this reduce poverty?
These steps will diversify community leadership and increase public involvement in local policy-related issues that affect families in poverty to better meet their needs and create sustainable capacity in advocating for the community

Generating Prosperity:
Low-income residents participating in BuRSST action steps will have a 10%-25% increase in assets

Removing Barriers to Create Wealth

Creating wealth by expanding economic opportunities through career advancement and small business opportunities.

Action Steps:

Conduct community/business forums to increase public/private sector participants
Develop career advancement agreements that lead to living wage employment
Implement partnerships to create career pathways for U.S. certification and job placement for immigrant and refugee residents
Partner with entities to strengthen and expand microenterprise programs for BuRSST residents
Develop partnerships focused on integrating vocational ESL and Basic Skills training into technical training and degree programs

How will this reduce poverty?
These steps will increase access to livable family-wage jobs by targeting and increasing participation of low-income residents in career advancement programs, relevant training and developing partnerships for low-income residents to start or grow their own small businesses with microloans and coaching support

Generating Prosperity:
Low-income residents participating in the BuRSST action steps will increase their household income 25%-50%

Overcoming Poverty through Education

Overcoming generational poverty through education by promoting systems change through partnerships

Action Steps:

Create youth entrepreneur partnerships that help develop linkages to youth training, career exploration opportunities and small business development
Develop partnerships to deliver scholarship and financial aid training to increase enrollment in post-secondary education
Work with community partners to raise awareness and educate low-income parents about the importance of early learning

How will this reduce poverty?
Low-income students will complete post-secondary education and move into careers that provide living wage jobs

Generating Prosperity:
At least 75 low-income residents will enroll in post-secondary education biannually by participating in BuRSST action steps.

At least 125 parents and children will participate in early learning settings biannually, and 75% of those children will be better prepared for school by participating in BuRSST action steps.