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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.

Cover image of Ascend's 2Gen factsheet.

2Gen Approach Fact Sheet

Two-generation (2Gen) approaches build family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the…

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2Gen Overview Video

Ascend, in partnership with the Kresge Foundation, is thrilled to share the newly released video,…

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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.

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Early Childhood Development
Early Childhood Development

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.

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K-12
K-12

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.

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Postsecondary & Employment Pathways
Postsecondary & Employment Pathways

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.

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Economic Assets
Economic Assets

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.

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Health & Well-Being
Health & Well-Being

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.

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Social Capital
Social Capital

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.

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