Ascend

Our Work

Ascend will build a network of leaders and accelerate policies and community solutions that are proven to increase the economic security and educational achievement of vulnerable families, particularly those headed by women. We will leverage the research that demonstrates the impact of investing in women and the positive results on families and communities.

In the global arena, investing in women has achieved significant results, leading to stronger communities and thriving children. Yet this momentum has not been fully harnessed in the United States. In a complex, fast-paced, and financially constrained world, different strategies, relationships and capabilities will be demanded. Success requires a blend of enduring best and emerging practices, and a drive for unexpected solutions. Measurable impact comes from the ability to work across systems and connect organizations and individuals in effective, efficient, and more meaningful ways.

Education
We will elevate strategies that focus on postsecondary education for parents and quality early learning for children, and we will work to find solutions where postsecondary and early childhood education goals intersect.

Economics
We will generate new ideas and support proven strategies that advance stability, and we will promote opportunities and assets for parents, especially women, and their children.

Social Capital
We will tap support networks for vulnerable families, which exist both on the gorund and across sectors.  From the private to the public, the local to the national, the familiar to the unexpected, we will highlight innovative solutions, connect vulnerable families, and build political will for meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable families.