Each year, Alabama Possible compiles the Barriers to Prosperity Data Sheet. This data sheet provides numerous variables that might serve as “Barriers to Prosperity” for Alabamians in all 67 counties. In this episode, Mae Whiting, the Alabama Possible Data and Research Manager, gives some context about the data sheet and best practices for viewing and using the data sheet. 

For over a decade, Chris McCauley has been involved in civic engagement in Alabama. His most recent project includes spearheading the Break It Down Discussion Series. The virtual discussions were centered around the Barriers to Prosperity Data Sheet and encouraged citizens across Alabama to find common ground and share their lived experiences. Chris currently serves as the Director of Communications for the University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Arts and Sciences.

 At the age of 12, as an entering high school freshman, Valencia Belle began her first fee-for-service tutorial business assisting fellow students with ACT Prep in Science and Math. Fast forward to 2015, she launched the S.C.H.O.O.L.S Program (Success Can Happen Out Of Low Scores), an Academic Enrichment and Supplemental Education Services Company, which offers ACT Prep, STEM tutoring and “wrap-around” educational coaching services to advance graduation rates and college entrance. As a result, multiple parents and students have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars in college costs.

This year, Alabama Possible celebrates its 28th anniversary. Listen to one of the founders, Wayne Flynt as he shares the evolution of the Alabama Poverty Project to Alabama Possible.