The column in the Spring 2026 Policy & Practice reflects on insights gained from writing American Welfare, emphasizing the essential role of human services in democracy and urging leaders to reshape systems as intentional design choices.
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Engaging with ‘American Welfare’: A Reader’s Guide
The author introduces a companion guide for "American Welfare," encouraging readers to engage deeply with its themes. The guide promotes reflection on public systems and invites honest discussion, emphasizing that these systems can be reshaped by understanding their stories.
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One Week Left: Why This Book Matters Now
"American Welfare," publishing soon, explores the widening gap between national narratives and personal experiences. It argues for viewing well-being as vital infrastructure, advocating for redesigned support systems to foster accessibility, connection, and community resilience.
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What We Build Together: Two Weeks Until American Welfare
Two weeks from today, American Welfare: Reclaiming the Dream for All of U.S. will be out in the world. As the publication date approaches, I keep returning to a simple truth that runs through every chapter of this book: systems do not change on their own. People change them. And…
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Frederick Douglass & the Structures That Shape Freedom
Frederick Douglass emphasized the necessary connection between struggle and progress, urging us to confront societal structures that limit opportunity. His insights encourage a commitment to inclusivity, challenging narratives, and designing systems for collective thriving as we enter 2026.
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Belonging by Design: Insights from john a. powell
Belonging is intentionally created through design and policy choices, not just a hopeful feeling. It's essential for community building, requiring intentional systems to foster inclusion and support, as emphasized in john a. powell's work.
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Gratitude for the Builders of Belonging
This message expresses gratitude to human services professionals for their work in transforming systems to support people. Their efforts foster connections, translate policy into practice, and strengthen community foundations, promoting trust, belonging, and democracy amid challenges faced by families and organizations.
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The Quiet Architecture of Democracy
The post emphasizes the importance of often unnoticed systems like human services in public life. It advocates for collaborative design with affected communities to enhance democratic health and well-being.
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Words Matter—Reclaiming “Welfare” as Well-Being
Language shapes our perceptions and systems regarding welfare. Originally linked to well-being, its meaning has degraded, affecting public communication and design. The way we frame welfare influences outcomes, impacting people's lives positively or negatively as we seek clarity amid uncertainty.
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The American Dream, Reimagined
Voting shapes our future by defining whose voices matter. While access to the American Dream has been limited, changing narratives can foster inclusivity and shared opportunity, challenging outdated perceptions of deservingness in society.