The current economic crisis reinforces the vital importance of asset building efforts along the Border where some of the Nation’s most vulnerable families live.

• asset building
• asset building resources

What is Asset Building?

Some of our nation’s most vulnerable families live along the Southwest Border. In spite of working hard, many working families in Border communities find severe obstacles as they work towards financial stability. This problem is often further compounded by a disconnection from the opportunities and supports they need to succeed.

An asset building approach moves working families towards sustained income, savings and assets. Assets make a significant difference in families’ lives, enabling people to exert control over their lives and provide more security for themselves and their children. Assets also lead to increase economic security and provide a cushion against unexpected events. Assets represent a broad array of resources, including education, training, a home, a car or a small business.

FABN member organizations offer an array of asset building strategies including:

• Free tax preparation assistance;
• Earned Income Tax Credits;
• Child Tax Credits;
• Providing Individual Development Accounts;
• Offering micro-enterprise opportunities; and
• Providing financial education instruction and tools.