The Independent United Ways of Sarasota and Manatee Counties are joining forces to host a community discussion on the 2017 ALICE Report. ALICE (Asset, Limited, Income, Constrained, Employed) households live above the poverty line but below the ALICE threshold, due to the high cost of living and unforeseen emergencies and expenditures that leave families one step away from poverty. In the region, 41% of hardworking families are ALICE households. Despite improvements to the local economy in this years report, the region has still not risen to its pre-recession status and by initiating a conversation in the local community, the regional United Ways hope to engage local non-profits, employers, local government and community members in a meaningful discussion of regional issues. Trends, data, solutions and policies will be explored, followed by a panel discussion to share employer strategies that are being used to assist struggling families and increase employee retention. The ALICE conversation will be held on April 14th, from 1–3pm, at the State College of Florida Lakewood Ranch Campus auditorium, 7131 Professional Parkway E. Sarasota, Fl. 34240. Registration is $15, and the proceeds will be going toward United Way Suncoast’s financial stability initiatives.

United Way Suncoast