Generational poverty is a complex problem with no single, easy-to-apply solution. Unlike circumstantial poverty, resulting from a specific event, like an illness or temporary loss of a job, generational poverty involves multiple generations of family and community lacking either the accumulated assets, education or resources on which to build. And in Appalachia, this … [Read more...] about Catalytic in Appalachia.
Articles
Smart money is on impact.
Simply put, impact investing is the practice of using investment dollars to generate positive social or environmental impacts in addition to offering a competitive financial return. The idea that we can do far more with our money than merely reap monetary dividends is important, and has grown popular recently, steadily gaining traction with investors, whether small or large. … [Read more...] about Smart money is on impact.
The power of modular building.
As builders, architects, urban planners all look for innovative ways to create both affordable and sustainable housing, some new homeowners have been looking to the efficiencies of modular construction as one potential solution. While pre-fab (for pre-fabrication) is a general term for building components that are created in a factory to be assembled on site, modular … [Read more...] about The power of modular building.
Maintaining a place for the community.
When wealthier individuals and organizations move into an urban neighborhood, both the rental and property values as well as the culture and character of the community can change. This process is known as gentrification. While this shift can do good and often results in the revitalization of struggling areas, it can also leave many people in the existing community priced out of … [Read more...] about Maintaining a place for the community.
Public space. The heart of the city.
There are numerous factors that city planners, politicians, developers and designers consider when planning cities; from infrastructure to transit to the creation of residential, commercial and retail space, all to draw new businesses and residents. But often the last thing to be considered, and yet perhaps the most critical component in any city neighborhood, is public space. … [Read more...] about Public space. The heart of the city.