Our Approach

Five elderly people walking outdoors against a clear blue sky, each carrying a camera and dressed casually.

We believe Social Security education should be practical, accessible, and built with the communities it serves.

That means our materials are:

Plain-language

We avoid unnecessary jargon and explain key decisions clearly.

Community-informed and Person-centered

We use focus groups and user testing to make sure the resources reflect real questions, concerns, and lived experiences.

Culturally relevant

We work with trusted partners to inform our work and reach multicultural audiences through organizations and media channels people already know.

Action-oriented

We help people prepare for real decisions, not just understand abstract rules.

Shareable

Our tools are designed for individuals, families, community organizations, presenters, and stakeholders who want to help more people plan with confidence.


A joyful middle-aged woman with gray curly hair, wearing a black turtleneck, smiling broadly, and showing fist pumps with her fists, standing against a dark gray background.

Who This Is For

This project is designed for:

  • Adults approaching retirement

  • Low- and moderate-income workers

  • Families helping loved ones plan for retirement

  • Families who have lost a breadwinner

  • Disabled workers

  • Community-based organizations

  • Financial coaches and counselors

  • Workforce organizations

  • Senior-serving organizations

  • Media and outreach partners

  • Advocates focused on retirement security and economic mobility


Project Goals

Through this initiative, we aim to:

  • Increase awareness of Social Security claiming options

  • Help pre-retirees better understand how timing affects benefits

  • Reduce stress and confusion around claiming decisions and Social Security’s future

  • Shed light on Social Security’s future solvency concerns and how it can be solved

  • Equip families with tools for informed conversations

  • Support community organizations with ready-to-use educational materials

  • Reach tens of thousands of Californians through outreach, media, and partnership