New Framing Playbook: How to Talk About Two-Generation Approaches to Supporting Families

September 13, 2019 |

Have you ever felt that two-generation (2Gen) approaches to building family wellbeing should be a no-brainer, but that key audiences don’t quite “get it”? You’re not alone.
 
To pinpoint the communications challenges that come with 2Gen territory, analysts at the FrameWorks Institute compared what we say to how Americans think, identifying places where there’s likely to be a disconnect. The result is a recommendation for a major frame shift – from a narrow focus on service delivery to a broader narrative about human development – and specific ways to execute that shift.

Ascend and the FrameWorks Institute are pleased to share a playbook and messaging guide to support practitioners, systems leaders, policymakers, advocates, and families in talking about a two-generation approach. It offers guidance on how to make intentional choices about where to start, what to emphasize, and what to leave unsaid.

We now have two videos to supplement your learning and sharing this information with others: Check out the short video primer that talks about why framing is so important, and a webinar that unpacks why 2Gen ideas are sometimes hard to get across, what reframing needs to accomplish, and new talking points that can help. We were joined by Julie Sweetland, senior advisor at the FrameWorks Institute, for the video and webinar.

The history of social movements shows that when advocates across organizations adopt, echo, and amplify more effective frames on their topic, the issue builds momentum and change ensues. Please read and share these materials and insights with your networks so we can all shift the narrative together!

Related Posts

Photo of Generation Hope's Nicole Lynn Lewis with her five children
Today, Nicole Lynn Lewis is an accomplished author, CEO of Generation Hope, and mother of five. But she didn’t always feel a sense of stability and pride. When she arrived on campus with her three-month old daughter, she instantly felt out of place and didn’t know who to turn to for help. Her feelings of …

‘1 in 5’ Season 2 Episode 7: Learn About Generation Hope Read More »

Aspen Postsecondary Success for ParentsMarch 28, 2023
Today, Ascend at the Aspen Institute (Ascend) released the second season of “1 in 5,” its highly rated podcast that explores the multifaceted lives of the one in five college students raising children.
Press ReleasesMarch 20, 2023
Photo of Dominique Baker seated with her two sons outside their home
Dominique Baker married her high school sweetheart and planned to pursue a degree in social work, but her first semester in college proved to be both financially and mentally exhausting. As her family grew and Dominique took stock of the things she wanted for herself and her two children, she made the decision to leave …

‘1 in 5’ Season 2 Episode 6: Meet Dominique Baker Read More »

Aspen Postsecondary Success for ParentsMarch 19, 2023