Together, the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA), Leadership for a Networked World at Harvard University (LNW) and The Kresge Foundation’s Human Services Program launched NextGenFrontline.org — a dynamic learning site created by and for human services organizations.

This new platform is designed to equip frontline human service providers and advocates with practical tools, curated resources and actionable insights to drive person-centered systems change. The site is a product of the Next Generation Frontline Innovators Learning and Action Institute, an initiative funded by Kresge and co-created and administered by LNW founded at Harvard in collaboration with APHSA.

“We are excited to launch the website as a space for collaboration, learning, and action – created and designed with amazing frontline leaders from across the country,” said Dr. Raquel Hatter, managing director of Kresge’s Human Services Program. “This initiative underscores the importance of frontline leaders’ well-being and draws on their dedication to families and the expertise they bring to their work. We are grateful to these frontline leaders for their contributions to the field and for their service.”

Frontline staff in human services organizations play a critical role in advancing the sector. Their experience and close relationships with the families they serve fuel innovation and lead to more effective, responsive public service delivery and real opportunities for families to thrive.

The learning site features:

• Policy priorities for improving outcomes for families living with low incomes.
• Curated tools and frameworks for implementing a 2Gen approach as put forth by Ascend at the Aspen Institute. This approach considers the needs of both children and the adults in their lives. Resources also include the Human Services Value Curve, developed by Dr. Antonio Oftelie, a framework for both system-wide change and person-centric solutions.
• Insights on why wellbeing matters and recommended wellbeing practices for human services practitioners. 
• Reflections from frontline innovators who are driving change nationwide across the sector.

Content on the site reflects the work and learning journey of frontline leaders in human services, grounded in power-sharing, partnership, co-learning, and co-creation.

Throughout the year, the cohort participated in formal learning programs, communities of practice and attended a national conference. These activities shaped the resources now available to all. Additional contributing partners include PolicyLink, Tiffany Day of Daylight Solutions, Marjoirie Sims of Ascend at the Aspen Institute, Chad Thomas of CG Squared and The New School.

During the Institute, Frontline leaders identified well-being as an important tenant to further explore given the growing understanding that the sector must prioritize their own well-being to be effective in supporting individuals, families and communities.

In support of this, the Frontline Innovators developed their own definition of well-being, based on lived and professional experiences, and strategies human services organizations can implement to better collectively support staff, families and communities.

Visit nextgenfrontline.org to explore resources, engage in peer learning, and access strategies to advance social and economic mobility for families living with low incomes and improve wellness for frontline leaders at human service organizations.