Use the Government Programs We Already Have

I’ve been doing some research for an electronic book that I decided to write and self-publish over the internet. This research has led me to some conclusions concerning our country and the possibilities that exist for citizens to create wealth and a comfortable lifestyle.

In Minnesota, I found a story about a man who had worked as a missionary most of his adult life and upon his return to the United States he really didn’t have a lot of marketable job skills. He had 10 children to support and was unemployed, on welfare. He went to a local community lending organization and was able to obtain a microloan to begin a small construction business. Presently, he is almost completely off welfare and will soon be able to support his entire family based on the help he received from that same community lender.

In St. Louis, there is a community development organization that offers “personal development accounts”. These accounts are designed to encourage citizens to save their money for future goals. A person sets a goal of saving a minimum of ten dollars per month from their income, this money is deposited in a regular bank savings account. When the person decides to withdraw the money for an eligible purpose such as a down payment on a home or for small business startup capital, this particular community development organization will match the money in the account dollar for dollar. Now that’s true empowerment! It’s not welfare. It’s also not sink or swim! It’s an incentive to motivate people to work hard, be patient, and have a long term vision.

I’ve become convinced, as I’m doing my research, that we don’t need anymore government programs. Everything people need to thrive is in place. The Small Business Administration provides an astounding array of financial and technical support programs.

The SBA will help you write business plans, help you develop financing, teach you about credit, and help you develop management and marketing skills. All you have to do is look in the yellow pages to get in touch with an SBA representative. The USDA provides finances for rural business development and many times works together with the SBA.

Instead of more programs, we need ways to instill people with motivation, patience, passion, and long term discipline to pursue their dreams. Long term welfare creates dependence. Empowerment creates independence. You choose.