Recognizing the need to address the increasing vulnerability of families and individuals in their communities, several local governments and nonprofit organizations across the country are implementing innovative financial security and asset-building strategies that seek to expand the financial cushion for their residents and clients. These strategies are those that help individuals and families better manage their finances, maximize their income and build a safety net. They include debt counseling and credit repair, financial education, access to low-cost checking and savings accounts, and free tax preparation assistance.