In the year 2005, progress has been made toward eliminating poverty, restoring dignity and hope for those experiencing poverty, and creating compassionate communities. This has happened through the actions of dedicated people at all levels of the community who believe solutions to poverty are in the hands of people who care and commit to making change happen. People experiencing poverty are recognized as contributing to the wealth and vitality of community life, and their voices are heard in policy and decision making.
People are committed to eliminating child poverty and reducing the gap between the rich and poor.
People value diversity and work toward the elimination of discrimination of any kind. People in support systems are committed to helping each individual they work with have the tools they need to experience long-term success. People understand that movement from poverty requires financial assets as well as income and are committed to developing public policies that help to build those assets for families. People offering employment programs and jobs recognize the value of lifelong learning, pay equity and livable wages, and make every effort to ensure accessible and successful employment to those who need it. People have access to job skills training and higher educational opportunities designed to advance their careers.