Date
Address it like this:
City of Columbus Councilmembers
Mayor Andrew Ginther
Franklin County Board of Commissioners
To Whom It May Concern,
Start with your support:
I/We write to express support for Families Flourish, an innovative and proven nonprofit in Central Ohio working to help families reach economic and housing stability.
Here are examples of ideas for you to include in your own words:
- Families Flourish is a tool in our region’s toolbox to end our status as second-in-the-nation for economic segregation. Central Ohio has become a tale of “two gated communities: one kind of community that locks people into disinvestment and hopelessness; and another that locks people out of better jobs, safer streets and higher-performing schools.”
- The families dedicate themselves to the program for three years, taking advantage of one-on-one coaching, monthly programs, and rent support that does not shrink when incomes rise. Three years allows time to learn a new skill, try it out, fail, try again. Coaching helps encourage self-confidence, build skills and creates an accountability partner.
- While we must continue to do everything in our power to improve economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, we must also look to provide options for families in already established neighborhoods.
- Families Flourish has demonstrated undeniable and incredible success as the graduates increased their incomes by 58% on average, or $17,000. The parents have better jobs and more education, the children are thriving in schools that can offer more support.
- The program continues to be evaluated by OSU researchers.
Please close with an ask:
I/We humbly request your support by providing funding for this proven program that uplifts families and helps them and future generations add their talents to our region’s economy.
Sincerely,
Your signature(s) here
