Restore the promise of work: Reducing inequality by raising the floor and building ladders
April 21, 2016
Aspen Institute
Argues that poor-quality jobs should be re-conceived and redesigned to provide greater economic opportunities for workers. The elements that characterize “bad jobs” — low wages, few advancement opportunities, bad or indifferent supervision — have significant costs for workers, businesses and entire communities, the authors argue. The authors describe a “pro-work strategy” with five essential elements. An appendix identifies numerous initiatives and businesses that exemplify the “raise the floor and build ladders” approach, including PHI affiliates Cooperative Home Care Associates in the Bronx and Home Care Associates in Philadelphia.