The Prosperity Initiative is an intergovernmental effort to develop wealthier communities across Pima County through policies that reduce generational poverty and improve opportunity. It is led by Pima County and the City of Tucson, along with Marana, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, South Tucson, and the Tucson Indian Center.
Why the Prosperity Initiative? Poverty is complex, persistent and a difficult cycle to break, which is why we need to rethink our approaches and commit to better outcomes. This is a historic moment to create the conditions for individual and community prosperity by focusing strategically on effective approaches that provide opportunities for lower income families to gain greater economic stability, which expands their capacity to engage with, benefit from, and contribute to the wider community.
Why policy? Research shows that that certain policies and investments not only directly assist those in need, but also reduce costs to the community as a whole and return greater long-term value. Policy creates a longer-term commitment and a strategic framework.
Next Steps: These policies can be adopted or adapted by any of the governing bodies. The Pima County Board of Supervisors voted to approve the Prosperity Initiative on Dec. 5 and in January the city of Tucson’s Mayor and Council did the same. Other city, town and tribal councils will review these recommendations and determine what actions they will take.
If adopted, the second stage begins in 2024 and will focus on aligning local government operations and investments to best implement those policies. We will continue to work with our community partners throughout.