Join us to learn the reality of poverty, in the United States and here in Arlington.

Is it true that anyone can get ahead in America if they just work hard and play by the rules? Join us to learn the realities of people facing poverty, in the United States and here in Arlington.

Participate in a 5-part series (July 7 - August 4) to learn about and discuss how government policies and other barriers hold people in poverty. Hear directly from affected Arlington neighbors and understand why this should matter to everyone in our community. Learn how to confront stereotypes and create a more just economy and safety net so everyone has a fair shot at getting ahead. This course borrows heavily from Matthew Desmond's Pulitzer Prize-winning book "Poverty, by America." 

Refreshments will be provided. 

About the Presenter: Anne VorderBruegge has 35 years of nonprofit and local government experience working on behalf of under-resourced residents in Arlington and DC. She served at the Arlington Community Foundation (2014 - 2023), expanding its community impact through economic mobility initiatives and advocacy for safety net systems and policy reform. She led Arlington’s Guarantee (guaranteed income to very low-income working households); Bridges Out of Poverty (Arlington safety net system reforms); and Shared Prosperity (scaling up deeply affordable housing, childcare and workforce opportunities).

In partnership with Arlington Community Foundation

REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Seats are limited. Participants should expect to attend all five programs in the series. Register just once to attend all five dates. 

For more information contact LibraryPrograms@arlingtonva.us

• Location campus Central Library
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