Make a Difference
Subtitle: How One Man Helped Solve America's Poverty Problem
Edition: 1 edition
Publisher: Truman Talley Books
Published: February 23, 2000
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 384
ISBN-13: 9780312252236
Subjects: Poverty; Welfare Economics; Social Science; Politics - Current Events; Politics/International Relations; Public Policy - Social Services & Welfare; Political Science / Economic Conditions; Case studies; Economic assistance, Domestic; Economic development projects; Illinois
Description: "Author Gary MacDougal spent months in Illinois inner cities and rural communities talking with the "ladies in the backyard," befriending community leaders, and working with local organizations in his quest to find solutions that have long eluded academic researchers and politicians.

As Chairman of the Governor's Task Force on Human Services Reform, MacDougal was the catalyst for the complete overhaul of the state's welfare system, which included the largest reorganization of state government since 1900.".

"State caseworkers became problem solvers instead of distant gatekeepers to benefits; communities, including churches, schools, and employers, started working with government; and outcomes were rigorously measured. Welfare clients with problem-filled backgrounds, no job histories, and minimal education soon found employment.".

"Three years after MacDougal's suggestions were implemented, Illinois now stands well ahead of California, New York, and other big-city states with a 40 percent reduction in welfare rolls."--BOOK JACKET.