Our Person-Centered Approach

To understand the current challenges facing U.S. households, Aspen FSP works with the people who have experienced them firsthand. Their insights form the foundation of Aspen FSP’s strategy and research.

Centering Communities

We know that for systems to reflect the needs of the people affected by them, people need power and influence over how these systems are designed and operated.

That’s why our person-centered approach prioritizes the wisdom and leadership of people who have experienced financial insecurity. Their insights inform Aspen FSP’s research and dialogues, uncovering the barriers that prevent U.S. families from building wealth and well-being.

Then, together with community and organizational leaders on the frontlines of these issues, we co-create and support the policy and market solutions that can address these barriers.

Our Values in Action

Latest Posts

Get the latest on our person-centered work.

Publications

Learning from Young Adults to Improve Public Benefits for All

Nearly one in five young adults experience poverty. Public benefits can help them afford daily life as they establish themselves.

May 13, 2025

Joanna Smith-Ramani and Olivia Farmer discuss financial issues facing young adults.
Blog Posts

From Challenges to Change: Young Voices on Financial Equity

Olivia Farmer and Joanna Smith-Ramani explore the challenges young adults face in achieving financial stability at the Aspen Ideas Festival.

January 4, 2025

How Person-Centered Practices Can Advance Financial Security

Watch the event that answers the question: How can we make person-centered practices the default in financial security initiatives?
Blog Posts Publications

What Expanding Native American Representation in the Legal Field Can Teach Us About Building a More Diverse Financial Services Industry

This case study takes lessons from the legal field’s efforts to empower Native youth to learn how we can build a financial sector that better serves diverse communities.

July 15, 2024

Blog Posts

“Find People Where They Are”: Four Experts on the Value of Person-Centered Practices in Benefits Design and Delivery

To understand the importance of person-centered insights to the benefits delivery process, Aspen FSP asked individuals to share their own experiences. 

April 5, 2024

Blog Posts Videos

Climate Leaders on Financial Security-Victor Inuk Gavilanes and Rosazlia Grillier

This conversation centers the daily impacts of climate events on families and communities that have historically been excluded.

March 18, 2024

Blog Posts Publications

Data Sharing for Economic Development and Resiliency in Indian Country: Takeaways From Tribal Leaders

Rapporteur’s report on the role of tribal data in promoting economic opportunities in Indian Country.

March 8, 2023

Our Community Advisory Group

Our Community Advisory Group (CAG) helps shape and direct Aspen FSP’s strategic priorities. Composed of six leaders with direct experience of financial insecurity, the group provides deep, ongoing feedback into our work.

We established the CAG in December 2021 to learn from on-the-ground leaders who are working to advance financial security in their communities through organizing, advocacy, and direct service. Since then, the CAG has worked with internal and external partners, developing effective, responsive solutions across our portfolios.

Community Advisor Group Members

Kadisha Davis

Community Advisory Group Member

Victor “Inuk” Gavilanes

Community Avisory Group Member

Alana Gracey

Community Advisory Group Member

Callie Greer

Community Advisory Group Member

Rosazlia Grillier

Community Advisory Group Member

Eboni Worsley

Community Advisory Group Member

“I often say, ‘If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.’ With Aspen FSP, they invited us to the table, gave us the menu, and said, ‘What’s the order for today?’ 

That’s the person-centered approach.”

Callie Greer, Community Advisory Group Member

Stay Connected

Join our work to build financial security for all.

Learn more about how you can support Aspen’s Financial Security Program through a philanthropic grant, tax-deductible gift, or event sponsorship. 

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