The Social IMPACT Research Center (IMPACT) is putting resources at your fingertips to help you use the Standard as you educate, advocate, and plan in your community:

Illinois Report. Read IMPACT's report on self-sufficiency in Illinois to learn more about economic conditions in the state and what the Self-Sufficiency Standard can show us about how Illinois families are faring.

Online Calculator. Access a IMPACT's online calculator that allows users to compare their monthly budget to the Self-Sufficiency Standard to see how their current wages stack up and to help families determine potential eligibility for certain income supports programs The calculator will also provide a full complement of resources to help families learn more and apply. Coming Fall 2009.

Income Supports Information. IMPACT has compiled a Quick Resource Guide for Illinois families struggling to make ends meet. The Quick Resource Guide outlines the various types of assistance that may be available to Illinois families and includes information on eligibility criteria, where to get more information, and how to access or apply for certain benefits. 

Local Fact Sheets. Download fact sheets tailored to self-sufficiency in each county.

Policy Briefs. IMPACT is releasing a series of policy briefs that will use the Standard to illustrate important policy changes that can greatly help Illinois families achieve self-sufficiency and beyond. Read our policy briefs to learn more about how the Self-Sufficiency Standard can be used to support income supports policy change, influence workforce development efforts, support the case for asset building, and provide lessons related to how we measure poverty. Coming Fall 2009 and Winter 2010.

Jobs and Wage Information. IMPACT has linked Illinois Self-Sufficiency Wages with job information. Look for job information such as average wages, level of education needed, and job outlook for a sample of occupations. Also, find information on training and education opportunities to equip workers with needed skills. Coming Fall 2009 and Winter 2010.

Self-Sufficiency Standard Toolkit. Explore a toolkit that includes presentations tailored to different audiences and potential users of the Standard, talking points on the Standard, and much more. Coming Fall 2009.

Want us to come out and present on the Self-Sufficiency Standard to your organization? Contact Amy Terpstra at research@heartlandalliance.org. 

The Social IMPACT Research Center's Illinois Self-Sufficiency Project is made possible through the generous support of the Grand Victoria Foundation and the Chicago Foundation for Women.