Two-Generation Approach
The Two-Generation (2Gen) approach, developed by Ascend at the Aspen Institute, strengthens family well-being by intentionally supporting both children and the adults in their lives at the same time. This whole-family model focuses on creating lasting pathways to educational success and economic stability that can be passed from one generation to the next. The 2Gen framework is built around six key areas: education, economic assets, social capital, health and well-being, and coaching and mentoring services.
2GEN Approach
The 2Gen approach helps families achieve five different aspects of family well-being.
Physical and Mental Health
Health has a major impact on a family's ability to thrive. If a child is unwell, it can affect attendance and learning in school. A parent's illness can affect their ability to earn or perform at work - and to be the good parents they want to be. Moreover, research shows children experience spectacular brain development in their early years, and that new parents undergo major brain structure changes just as babies do. Steady emotional development – and the treatment of any trauma or stress throughout family life – are critical to ensuring families get off to a good start and progress.
Early Childhood Education
Research from Nobel winning economist James Heckman indicates each year of high-quality early childhood education produces a 13 percent return on investment in that child's future earnings. That's why 2Gen efforts strive to ensure that all services and programs for young children – including childcare, Head Start, home visits, K-12 education, and activities with their parents and guardians – include state-of-the-art content and meet proven high-quality standards.
Post-Secondary and Employment Pathways
Education boosts family well-being. A parent's educational level is a strong predictor of a child's success. Parents who complete a college degree double their lifetime incomes, adding to the financial security of their families. Two-generation approaches help parents and adult caregivers achieve education milestones and training certifications that lead to better jobs and careers.
Economic Assets
A $3,000 difference in parental income when their child is young is associated with a 17 percent increase in the child's future earnings. Striving families with low incomes face daunting costs for housing, transportation, education, food, health care – and more. Two-generation approaches help parents increase economic security and income by helping them reduce costs, access available financial assistance, and build assets over time.
Social Capital
To get ahead in life, both adults and children need helpful connections to people and information – and need opportunities to both give and receive support. Building a family's "social capital" network is a key component in a successful 2Gen approach. Years of research have shown that social capital connections produce for both families and community – as peer support, stronger neighborhoods, more participation in community and faith-based organizations, and school and workplace advances.