Why Asset Building?
According to the Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED), a national leader in economic development for over two decades, even the most basic necessities are currently out of reach for nearly one third of Montanans who are deemed "asset impoverished." A household defined as such has insufficient net worth to subsist at the federal poverty level for three months in the absence of income.
The 2009-2010 Assets and Opportunities Scorecard demonstrates a serious need for sustained focus on building assets in Montana.
By reducing persistent, cyclical poverty and supporting low-and-moderate income families in achieving financial stability, we will ultimately help create thriving communities and strengthen our state economy.
Assets are not defined narrowly in the sense of one's vehicle, house, or savings account–but rather encompass the non-tangible assets of one's health, education, and social capital. In other words, assets represent a broad array of resources that enable people and communities to influence the decisions that affect their lives and ability to participate in society in meaningful ways.