EQUITY e-newsletter: Februrary 2005

Building an Inclusive Ownership Society

Finding Common Ground: Supported Living Principles and Asset-Based Community Development

Looming cuts for numerous poverty-reduction programs promises tough times for both the Asset Building and Disability communities. Megan O'Neil, Access to Assets Project Coordinator, provides timely insight on creative financing methods being used to ensure that people with disabilities are included in the American Dream of homeownership.

2005 NCIL Statement of Values on Social Security and Private Accounts

Bryon MacDonald, California Work Incentives Initiative, and the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) encourage thorough analysis of potential changes to Social Security- including disability insurance in the discussion.

Planning for a Better Life: Enhanced Life Options

Nina Hamberger, Enhanced Life Options- New Hampshire, operates a national Special Needs Center providing expert technical assistance on different types of trusts for people with disabilities. ELO manages trusts for individuals with disabilities in New Hampshire, whose financial situations require knowledgeable, trustworthy and caring support.

A Second Chance

After living in the State Mental Hospital, Peter is now clean and sober and has a renewed sense of purpose to his life. With the support of Community Enterprises Corporation and Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey's IDA program, Peter is about to buy a home of his own.

Asset-Based Community Development

A simple concept that may help Community-Based Organizations weather the tough year ahead. The ABCD Institute offers a useful "Capacity Inventory" tool to help map local resources.

EQUITY Responds: Answers to common questions received from either the Asset Building Community or the Disability Community

What is "Supported Living"?