Breaking Down Barriers to Economic Opportunity

This story is part of our Transforming Together series, which highlights 20 key moments in our Foundation’s first 20 years. Read more stories in the series.

As director of the city of Dubuque’s Office of Shared Prosperity & Neighborhood Support, Anderson Sainci is deeply involved with efforts to alleviate poverty. Yet helping all people thrive is a bigger job than a single agency can tackle.

“It takes intentional commitment and investment from all corners of the community, as well as state and national partners, to scale this work and build an America that supports all people,” Sainci says.

That’s where the Community Foundation comes in. Sanici’s department is one of many local partners in the Foundation’s Project HOPE initiative. Started in 2012 with support from the city of Dubuque, Project HOPE builds on the Foundation’s role as a convener and collaborator, forging partnerships with leaders in areas like government, education and nonprofits. Together, we implement efforts focused on factors that impact economic mobility

Poverty and income inequality touch all demographics in Dubuque, but the differences in impact by race and ethnicity are stark,” says Alex Baum, director of advocacy, data and learning at the Community Foundation

For example, more than 52% of Dubuque’s Black residents live below the poverty line, compared to just 8% of White residents. Living in poverty can affect family stability, a child’s readiness for school and ability to learn, high school dropout rates, and physical health.

“All of these factors can affect someone’s ability to advance their economic future,” Baum says.

Since it was launched, Project HOPE has encompassed an array of efforts to tackle poverty and income inequality, such as high school dropout reengagement, connecting individuals to job training and careers, and connecting families to financial services. Importantly, Project HOPE partners seek the voices of those representing communities and residents touched by these issues, ensuring that solutions are shaped by those impacted.

For Sainci, partnering with the Community Foundation helps deepen the impact of his department and others working to address the economic well-being of Dubuque residents.

“As a leader, I am learning that life is about serving others and leaving your community better than you found it,” he says. “Working with the Community Foundation gives me the vehicle to address current and past inequities and make a lasting difference.”