Inside a PA Nonprofit Helping People with Disabilities Live More Independently

The Pennsylvania-based nonprofit Next Step Berks assists families of individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities with resources to help them live more independently.

Inclusive developments are rising in demand across the state.

This article discusses the background and challenges of Next Step Berks.  

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More Housing, Higher Minimum Wage in PA Budget Address

This week, Governor Shapiro proposed the 2026-27 budget that would increase state spending approximately five percent, while keeping the state income tax the same and cutting corporate taxes.

The budget would also dramatically expand funding for affordable housing and other infrastructure efforts across the state.

Additional proposals include capping rental housing application fees and annual rent increases. 

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Bipartisan Coalition of State Lawmakers Looks to Incentivize “Pro-Housing” Communities

A group of over a dozen Pennsylvania lawmakers and advocates are coming together to address the housing crisis via a bipartisan coalition.

A core reform is helping local governments to adopt “pro-housing” stances, like blocking rules that impose challenging developer requirements and reversing ordinances that restrict the building or expansion of certain housing types.

Other goals include improving equal housing access, anti-discrimination bills, and eviction sealing. 



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Turning the Data Center Boom into Long-Term Local Prosperity

The current standard for data center development delivers short-term construction jobs and revenue but is lacking in long-term local economic gains.

However, new permits, grid access, and program-backed scaling may offer new leverage for small communities.

This article discusses how data centers can harness sustainable local prosperity with existing and emerging frameworks. 



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Shared and Mutual Ownership for the Common Good 

Shared and mutual ownership models help to expand local and large-scale economies.

These models can take many forms, depending on a region’s geographic, cultural, and industrial backgrounds, and include various owners and goals.

The Urban Institute explores how shared and mutual ownership models are a practical benefit for diversifying and expanding economies. 



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National and State Child Care Data Overview

Across the nation, approximately 14.8 million children under the age of five need childcare, but only 10.8 million formal establishments exist.

This nearly 30 percent care gap creates strains and families and businesses.

The Bipartisan Policy Center discusses the childcare gap on a national and state level and different avenues for support. 

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