Transforming Poverty Systems:
A Collaborative Pilot
Empower Upper Cumberland was launched in November of 2022.This groundbreaking pilot shifts from managing poverty to actively alleviating it, replacing outdated systems with a comprehensive, results-driven approach. It brings together leaders from government, business, philanthropy, healthcare, education, faith-based organizations, and human services to drive systemic change.
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Upper Cumberland, Tennessee Pilot
Serving 700 eligible TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) families, this initiative goes beyond traditional case management by connecting families with community partners who support customized economic stability plans. By addressing systemic barriers—such as workforce development, childcare access, and financial literacy—this collaborative model is paving the way for long-term financial independence and a community-wide reduction in poverty.
Key Partners and Their Roles
- Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency: Leads a team of navigators who work directly with families to develop customized plans to transition from public assistance to the workforce.
- Tennessee Technological University: Provides educational assessments and offers coaching to help participants obtain certifications or degrees that lead to career-oriented jobs.
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Highlands Training Center: Delivers training and coaching to help participants secure new job opportunities.
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Cookeville Regional Medical Center Charitable Foundation: Offers financial assistance for medical expenses and raises local funds to support the pilot program.Â
- Workforce Connections: Builds a network of Certified Preferred Employers who are committed to hiring and supporting individuals from backgrounds of poverty.
- Upper Cumberland Development District: Focuses on developing macro-level solutions to address critical issues such as affordable childcare, housing, and transportation.
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PBS: Implements the Ready to Learn Curriculum to support children’s educational development.
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Circles USA: Facilitates weekly meetings and recruits trained volunteers to provide ongoing support to families.
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ETransX: Provides data collection and reporting platforms to track progress and outcomes.
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The Role of The Poverty Solution
The Poverty Solution plays a critical role in ensuring the success of the pilot program by:
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Developing materials and templates to support each partner’s efforts.
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Providing design consultation to optimize program implementation.
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Offering technical assistance throughout the process to ensure alignment with best practices.
Driving Impact Through Research and Evaluation
To measure the success of the pilot, the State of Tennessee has invested in a rigorous evaluation of the interventions in seven pilots across the state. MEF Associates is conducting a randomized control study on each pilot across the State of Tennessee. This evaluation will provide data-driven insights into what strategies work best, paving the way for scalable solutions that can be replicated in other communities.
A Comprehensive Pilot Plan for Change
Together with our partners, we have crafted a robust pilot plan that includes:
- Recruiting and training a dedicated team of navigators.
- Establishing stable four-year contracts with partner organizations.
- Building a data system to track family progress and program outcomes.
- Developing tools and incentives for employers to hire individuals from impoverished backgrounds.
A National Research Lab for Poverty Alleviation
By bringing together leading organizations, innovative strategies, and research-backed methods, the TANF Opportunity Act Pilots positions Tennessee as a national leader in poverty alleviation. The lessons learned here will not only impact families in Tennessee but will also serve as a blueprint for communities across the country.
Let’s build a future where economic stability is within reach for all.
Join us in creating lasting change.
through strategic collaboration and innovative solutions.
Want to learn more?
Join the 2025
Poverty Alleviation Summit
Space is limited. Secure your seat now to be part
of this groundbreaking event.Â
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Hosted by: The Upper Cumberland Development District,  Cookeville, TN.
Facilitated by:Â The Poverty Solution
Provide Your Details Below
A dedicated team member from The Poverty Solution will reach out to you shortly with all the information you need. Let’s take the first step together toward creating lasting change!Â
Let’s build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Poverty Alleviation Summit
Join us on May 13, 2025 together we can work together to begin the end of poverty!
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