NOVEMBER caregiver & entrepreneurship   

Mountain Lifeworks advocates for a balanced approach where meaningful employment and small business opportunities disrupt the poverty-depression cycle, and support self-sustaining re-investment in solutions to complement government systems and non-profit programs. A balanced approach includes the needs of individuals and caregivers on one-side and the challenges facing the professionals and providers they depend on on the other. Quality and consistency of care is connected to both training and retaining expertise, while adding qualified options to improve outcomes and reduce costs.

The SBA reports small business accounted for 2 out of 3 jobs added in the past 25 years (pdf) and can provide individuals and families with an opportunity to live with dignity and independence. At the same time 79% of Colorado small businesses report having NO EMPLOYEES. DOL entrepreneurship and small business programs already exist and increase positive outcomes for many veterans. By adapting these models we enable a more accessible and inclusive local economy to help improve the quality of life for our neighbors with disabilities and their family caregivers.

Pay Gaps persist for workers with Disabilities (HR drive)

Next Unemployment Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight (Axios)

Disability & Health Information for Family Caregivers | CDC

Entrepreneurs can help Fix the Disabled Unemployment Crisis (Entrepreneur)

CAREGIVER & ENTREPRENEURSHIP month  

Self-employment has long been an option for individuals seeking a new or better career. Today, many individuals with disabilities and their caregivers are turning to entrepreneurship for the flexibilities to meet both individual needs as well as professional and financial goals. Starting a business offers people the flexibility to earn a living, while maintaining latitude in choices such as selfcare, work hours, nature of tasks, and income.

US Census data indicates the poverty rate of families with a disability is more than double households with a disability. At the same time the BLS reports the unemployment rate among disabled populations to more than double that of their non-disabled peers. As a result more people are turning to self-employment and social entrepreneurship to accommodate individual employment and economic challenges traditional models consistently fail to address.

The Importance of Business Ownership to Wealth (sba.gov)

2022 Small Business Profiles – SBA's Office of Advocacy

Colorado Small Business Economic Profile (sba.gov)

COMMUNITY connections

MOUNTAIN LIFEWORKS recognizes the distinctions between root causes and factors that trigger or contribute to them. By using verified data and building a coalition of proven and willing partners we balance commercial and philanthropic strategies.  This innovative and balanced approach integrates public, private and non-profit solutions to expand qualified options, grow stronger economies and build more inclusive communities for everyone. We invite you to join our growing coalition and help increase local opportunities, reduce long-term costs and improve outcomes for our neighbors and their caregivers.

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