Prosperity Now

According to the report released on Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth exceeded expectations, adding 256,000 jobs in December. “While the final jobs report for 2024 highlights the resilience of the U.S. labor market in recovering from the pandemic, economic uncertainty remains as we enter 2025,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “Potential policy changes related to taxes, immigration, tariffs, and the federal workforce under the new administration could significantly impact the labor market’s trajectory.” As the nation prepares for economic shifts, Prosperity Now urges lawmakers to prioritize policies that expand economic opportunity and mobility for all.  Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/ebvqWt4W

Did you know that the digital divide affects millions of Americans and is a significant barrier to economic opportunity? Approximately 26 million Americans lack access to high-speed broadband, limiting their ability to participate in the digital economy. Today, Prosperity Now and T-Mobile hosted a virtual webinar unveiling strategies designed to drive economic opportunity in underserved communities by expanding digital access and financial inclusion. Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/ehav4Nq2

It's almost time! Join us on Wednesday, December 18 at 1 PM EST for our "Bridging the Digital Divide: Advancing Equity for Rural Communities" webinar, hosted by Prosperity Now in partnership with T-Mobile, and in collaboration with Change Machine and Credytu. This webinar will bring together leading experts and practitioners to explore actionable solutions for increasing digital access and adoption in rural areas. You won't want to miss it! Register here: https://lnkd.in/eVM7VJER

The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report reveals that consumer prices are up 2.7% for the 12 months ended in November, slightly above October’s 2.6% rate. High prices and mortgage rates have weighed heavily on the housing market, even as other sectors of the economy have shown resilience. “Housing costs remain a major hurdle for millions of Americans, keeping economic stability out of reach for working families,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “...We must turn voter demands into meaningful change that supports families, particularly those in marginalized communities,” Calderon continued. “Housing affordability is central to achieving economic equity, and the time for action is now.” Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/gPHEinyT

We’re thrilled to invite you to a special webinar on December 18 at 1 PM ET, hosted by Prosperity Now in partnership with T-Mobile, and in collaboration with Change Machine and Credytu. "Bridging the Digital Divide: Advancing Equity for Rural Communities" will bring together leading experts and practitioners to explore actionable solutions for increasing digital access and adoption in rural areas. Register here:  https://lnkd.in/eVM7VJER

This morning, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that nonfarm payrolls increased by 227,000 in November, following an upwardly revised gain of 36,000 in October. This report marks a significant rebound from October’s numbers, which were impacted by consecutive hurricanes and a significant labor strike. “These encouraging numbers signal a steady job market recovery, but they don’t tell the whole story for millions of working families who continue to struggle to make ends meet,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “...For our economy to become resilient and truly inclusive, we must prioritize policies that empower small businesses in marginalized communities to thrive.” Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/gSR5T-BG

Every day, individuals and families across America face systemic barriers that prevent them from achieving stability, wealth, and opportunity. At Prosperity Now, we are committed to breaking down those barriers and building a future where every family has the chance to thrive. Your support enables us to advance transformative programming. Consider donating to help us continue creating opportunities for families to build brighter futures. https://lnkd.in/e4nCz8KC

Prosperity Now, in collaboration with The Enterprise Center (TEC) and Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), today released a groundbreaking report titled “Mergers & Acquisitions: A Pathway to Wealth-Building for Black Women Entrepreneurs in Retail.” The report examines the unique challenges and untapped opportunities Black women entrepreneurs face in the retail sector and highlights the urgent need for targeted resources and systems to support this historically underrepresented group as retail suppliers. Press release: https://lnkd.in/e_egMdN5 Download the Mergers & Acquisitions report here: https://lnkd.in/enJzfGUA

November’s boost in the Consumer Confidence Survey underscores a steady upward trend, indicating growing consumer optimism about the economy and personal financial situations. However, Prosperity Now emphasizes that challenges in the housing market—including inventory shortages, elevated home prices, and persistently high interest rates—continue to hinder families from accessing homeownership opportunities, reinforcing the need for bold, systemic solutions. Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/ek_gK8fW

U.S. existing-home sales climbed 3.4 percent in October, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.96 million, according to the National Association of REALTORS® data released today. On the other hand, the US Census Bureau’s new residential construction statistics released this week reveals a decline in housing starts in October, signaling a warning sign that warrants closer attention. “The slowdown in new housing starts in October is alarming, but the increase in sales highlights a clear demand from consumers eager to enter the housing market,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “However, without a substantial uptick in new construction, housing shortages and affordability challenges will continue. We need regulatory relief now to ensure housing prices remain attainable for families struggling to secure a more prosperous financial future.” Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/etXzurYD