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But there is a problem: the system of social services that has been built up over past generations isn’t designed to increase poor people’s “capacity to aspire” and pursue their goals. Social services aren’t treated as part of an integrated process of human development. Just the opposite. Services are fragmented and clients are regularly shunted from agency to agency. Caseworkers serving people who are applying for public benefits don’t have the time, or the discretion, to get to know their clients, let alone brainstorm with them about problem solving.

Many Americans struggling in poverty today need more than financial assistance; they need help figuring out how to plug into a changing economy.

LIFT’s approach is grounded in the principle that change happens through relationships.

LIFT has spent more than a decade systematizing what amounts to a social technology.

They have looked closely at the human qualities required to address poverty. Above all, LIFT looks for volunteers who have demonstrated empathy.

Advocates are trained to treat clients with courtesy, to value their time, and to listen to their stories (while maintaining clear boundaries).

“Being treated politely is for many people a new experience.”

In fact, LIFT is seeing more people in the “near poor” or “newly poor” category.