reviving the american dream

Cesilia and Paola San Francisco-based EARN is the only asset-building organization in the nation that uses market-based principles to open the door to financial success for the working poor; pilot new, large-scale solutions to poverty; and transform asset policy in California. In fact, this model earned the organization the Fast Company/Monitor Group 2005 Social Capitalist of the Year Award, which recognizes the top 25 organizations on the country using business strategies to create social change. According to executive director Ben Mangan, “EARN is reviving the American dream and making it something to truly believe in again.”

Cesilia agrees. She is an immigrant from Honduras and a single working mother determined to giver her daughter, Paola, a future filled with choices. Thanks to EARN's Individual Development Account savings program, Cesilia, purchased a four-bedroom home in the Visitacion Valley District of San Francisco. Now she hopes to save for Paola's education.