2Gen Resource Library
Build whole family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the adults in their lives together. Access hundreds of free and evidence-informed materials to advance your work supporting children and their families.
Most Recent
Where America Agrees: The 2Gen Approach Unites Voters for Families
Key data and analysis on 2024 presidential election exit polling from Ascend at the Aspen…
Systemic, Measurable & Sustainable Strategies for Student Parent Success
Key tactics for engaging faculty to increase student parent success at postsecondary institutions, via the…
Certification & Training for Community Mental Health Workers
Medstar Georgetown University Hospital’s Family Leadership certificate training program trains a diverse network of community…
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NEW TO 2GEN? WELCOME!
The 2Gen name may sound new to some, but the concept of supporting whole families is rooted in Indigenous wisdom and the Settlement House movement. The 2Gen approach is rooted in equity and parent expertise, with five key principles and six core components. Check out a few foundational materials to get started on your 2Gen strategy.
2Gen Approach Fact Sheet
Two-generation (2Gen) approaches build family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the…
Two-Generation (2Gen) Social Graphics
Enclosed in this Zip file are two graphics Ascend often uses to convey the two-generation…
2Gen Overview Video
Ascend, in partnership with the Kresge Foundation, is thrilled to share the newly released video,…
Explore by Core Components
We define whole family well-being holistically, just as parents themselves do. The 2Gen approach works with families by focusing on six key areas that involve essential experiences, supports, and resources that everyone needs to survive and thrive.
Investing in our youngest children and families – from prenatal to age three – yields long-term benefits for society. These programs include child care, Head Start, and home visiting.
More K-12 schools are adopting two-generation approaches. Schools serve as community anchors and provide strong platforms for both children and the adults in their lives to thrive.
Parents who complete a college degree double their incomes. A parent’s level of educational attainment is also a strong predictor of a child’s success. Our Postsecondary work includes a focus on higher education, including colleges and universities, as well as workforce development programs.
Financial stability is critical to a family’s economic and social mobility. These assets include housing, transportation, financial education and asset building, tax credits, student financial aid, nutrition assistance, and more.
If a child is unwell, it can affect attendance and learning in school. Similarly, a parent’s illness can impact ability to earn or perform at work. Physical and mental health have a major impact on a family’s ability to thrive.
A person’s connections to other people, information, and opportunities to give and receive support is critical. This is a novel and key success factor to the 2Gen approach and it manifests as peer support, participation in community, leadership programs, career coaches, and so much more.