Ideas That Work

Ideas that Work Page Slider

Ideas that Work

Ideas that Work

Ideas that Work Page Slider

Ideas that Work

Ideas that Work

Wooden frame of a house under construction against a sepia-toned background.
Colorado's Need for Equitable GrowthColorado’s population boom highlights a need to pay attention to the impacts of a growing population and center equitable growth in a broader conversation.
Graphic illustration for the bell policy center's report on 'the state of aging' featuring a silhouette of an elderly person leaning on a cane against a backdrop of a mountainous landscape.
The State of Aging in ColoradoThe first of its kind, this new report provides deep data analysis and research to identify gaps and also provides a long-term benchmark to measure future progress.
Colorado's No Wrong Door System (green door with silver handle)
Colorado's No Wrong Door SystemWhen implemented effectively, a NWD System simplifies access to LTSS for older adults and their caregivers, serving as an entry point for LTSS that is publicly administered and funded.
two-generation bell policy center
Tax Credits for Working FamiliesTargeted tax credits are important parts of supporting working families. Here are is some information about two of the biggest ones.
age discrimination in colorado
Age Discrimination in ColoradoWhile a base set of age discrimination laws exist, they have proven woefully inadequate. We can strengthen these protections for older workers in Colorado.
enterprise funds colorado
Why a Statewide Strategy on Financial Empowerment is NeededLearn more about what an office of financial empowerment would look like and do in Colorado by reading our latest brief.
higher education in colorado
Actionable Agenda for the Future of Work & LearningWhen implemented, these changes can lead to better outcomes for Coloradans who have been historically disadvantaged, while also helping build a workforce that is better prepared, more resilient, and more responsive to future needs.
books ascending in size (stackable credential program)
Creating Stackable Credential ProgramsThis study outlines steps taken in the financial services stackable credentials program, but the lessons learned are transferable across a number of industries. The work here helps Colorado build a more equitable workforce and future.
two women hugging, caregiving in colorado 2020
Caregiving in Colorado: 2020 & BeyondProactive and intentional public policy that recognizes the value and worth of caregiving for older adults will be necessary to create a stronger, healthier, and more secure future for families throughout the state.
Banking Services
Federal Funds Are Important: Why Colorado Needs Support Now More Than EverNo state can prepare for an extraordinary event such as this, and that is where the federal government needs to step forward and support states, including Colorado.
2021 colorado legislative session, progressive income tax system, colorado legislative preview
Colorado Recovery HubThe Bell's Recovery Hub is a central location for credible information, ideas, analysis, and resources relevant to the immediate and future responses Colorado can undertake to respond to our changing environment.
aging in colorado
Actionable Aging Policy AgendaColorado must act now to create the age-friendly policies our state needs. These recommendations offer a meaningful, community-informed path forward.
2021 colorado legislative session, progressive income tax system, colorado legislative preview
Progressive Income Tax: How It WorksAs conversations about taxing upper-income individuals heat up across the country, many people are surprised to learn a progressive income tax system isn’t even an option in Colorado.
respite and private insurance
Respite Coverage & Private InsuranceThis brief explores innovative solutions that can increase access to respite and help foster a healthier, more supportive, and robust Colorado.
universal portable benefits state scan
Universal Portable Benefits State ScanColorado has already taken some action to develop its own unique universal portable benefits system, but we can, and must, do more. Learning from other states can help.
long-term care workers colorado
Career Ladders for Long-Term Care WorkersLong-term care workers are often underpaid, under trained, and lacking important benefits and career advancement opportunities.
A woman in a wheelchair being assisted onto a bus through a wheelchair lift by the Caring Workforce.
Caring for Our Caring Workforce: A Stronger Direct Service WorkforceThere’s increasing acknowledgement we must do more to support our direct care workers. We explore several promising ways to do this.
colorado secure savings plan
Colorado's Emerging Postsecondary & Workforce EcosystemThe first phase of the Bell's Future of Work & Learning Project is a landscape assessment, outlining major stakeholders and legislation that has shaped the ecosystem.
A group of diverse, happy children standing in front of a whiteboard in an affordable child care setting in Colorado.
Making Child Care More Affordable in ColoradoColorado's average cost of child care for a 4-year-old is about $11,000 per year, while infant care is closer to $15,000.
long-term care state scan
Healthy Aging & Promising Practices: A State Scan of Long-Term Care PoliciesTo truly see the benefits of our older population, we must address gaps preventing healthy aging. This report highlights specific state programs across the country Colorado can learn from.
proposition 109 college tuition student debt
Student Debt Solutions: Sizing Up Colorado's ApproachLegislation introduced on the first day of session could help Colorado’s students and their families don’t borrow for higher education at their own financial peril.
A glass "what are vendor fees" sign hanging on a shop window with reflections of interior lights.
What Are Vendor Fees?Due to a high percentage and no cap, businesses in Colorado keep more money from vendor fees than all but a few other states. What does this mean for you?
paid leave colorado
Colorado Paid Leave: Learning From Massachusetts & WashingtonDespite proposed bills, a Colorado paid leave plan has been stymied by the state Senate, while six states and D.C. already have laws on the books.
A person holding their lower back, possibly indicating discomfort or pain, may be in need of respite care.
Supporting Colorado Caregivers Through Respite CareRespite is a vital service for families who are taking care of a loved one at home. This brief examines how policymakers can better understand the structural needs, challenges, and opportunities of respite care.
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