During an election season, we often step back and allow the candidates to set the agenda. But that agenda may be more about polarizing us and getting them elected than about the real changes we need. Here’s an agenda based on the realities facing Americans, and what we want for our families, communities, and country.

FAMILIES :: Fairness for Working Parents

Author and mother Nanette Fondas lays out what truly family friendly policies would look like—those that help women thrive in the dual roles of worker and mother.

HEALTH CARE :: Health Coverage for Everyone

The movement for universal single-payer health care is growing, and it's not just liberals who are behind it. Dana Saib talks to the doctors and small business owners—including Republicans—who are lobbying for health care reform.

HOUSING :: Keep Prices Affordable—For Now and Forever

Community Housing Trusts buy land and houses, not for profit, but to keep them affordable for low- and middle-income residents. Daniel Fireside looks at the success of Vermont's 25-year-old Champlain Housing Trust, which provides homes for 2,100 households.

JOBS :: Create Your Own Workplace

Cooperative businesses allow employee-owners to receive all the benefits of their work—and their jobs can’t get out-sourced or downsized. Layla Aslani shows how low-income women are starting cooperative businesses, becoming their own bosses, and creating lasting prosperity for themselves and their families.