Resource Library

Want to learn more about upward mobility? Explore Urban research, insights from
communities and organizations across the country using the Upward Mobility Framework, and
tools and guides for those interested in advancing upward mobility and racial equity in
communities.
Illustration with people, buildings and trees

The Toolkit for Increasing Upward Mobility in Your Community offers practical guidance for local leaders who are working to advance mobility from poverty so that all residents can thrive. 
MALN members meet at the Urban Institute during the Learning Exchange on increasing upward mobility.
Data can help local leaders understand the true impact of housing affordability, access to child care, opportunities for higher education, and other important drivers of upward mobility on different communities.
MALN members meet at the Urban Institute during the Learning Exchange on increasing upward mobility.
Evidence has shown that people experiencing poverty face a complex web of structural and systemic barriers that often impedes and undermines their best efforts. Addressing these barriers requires that stakeholders come together to create a comprehensive approach to advance upward mobility in their
Historic downtown Kansas City, Missouri
An image of downtown Dallas, Texas.
This case study documents the steps local leaders in Dallas took to enhance collaboration across sectors and better meet the financial needs of residents.
An image of downtown Tucson, Arizona
This case study documents the Pima County Mobility Action Team’s experience developing measurement strategies to assess the outcomes of the Prosperity Initiative.
An illustration depicting a scene with various community members and buildings.
To support upward mobility from poverty, policymakers must specifically consider the unique challenges people with disabilities face when designing and implementing policies.
Photo credit: Jonathan Ardila, Getty Images
Community foundations are critical actors in local efforts to advance upward mobility and play a variety of roles in these initiatives.
A group of professionals working together in a conference room
People also need access to living wage jobs to be able to reach long-term upward mobility, or a better standard of living than the previous generation experienced
Upward Mobility Framework illustration
Community surveys are a powerful tool that can help local stakeholders deepen their understanding of local needs and priorities and involve community members in local planning.
An image of a mural commemorating Black Wall Street in North Tulsa
In North Tulsa, Oklahoma, generations of leadership, cultural wealth, and community advocacy have built a strong foundation for upward mobility. Yet many families in North Tulsa neighborhoods do not earn a living wage. In response, a growing, cross-sector movement has been working to strengthen
Poster paper that reads "how do you promote economic success" among residents.