Frequently Asked Questions
For Supporters
What does “poor” mean in the context of this initiative?
The term “poor” in reference to this success sequence, means an adult who does not earn enough to cover life’s basic needs in America—such as rent, food, transportation, healthcare, and a small amount of savings for emergencies. This widely accepted definition reflects a reality of living paycheck to paycheck, consistently worrying about bills, and having limited choices. It is not intended to judge or shame anyone; rather, it clearly defines what “poor” means for understanding and applying the success sequence as a proven pathway to avoid becoming poor as an adult and achieve economic stability.
We are fully aware that becoming poor as an adult is a complex issue influenced by many factors, but we choose to focus our energy on the three most powerful, data-backed choices available to every teenager, regardless of their starting point.
Can we partner with your nonprofit?
Absolutely. We welcome partnerships with civic, fraternal, youth and membership organizations, social and service clubs, community institutions, businesses, neighborhood leaders and philanthropies that want to help spread this message.
Anyone can adopt this initiative—there are no restrictions; you’re welcome to use our URL for program details, but feel free to share the facts with your own logo or creative ideas to help keep the message alive and spreading.
How much does it cost to put up a billboard?
Billboard costs vary by location, but on average, a single billboard can be placed for as little as ~$750 - $2000 per month. Larger or more visible locations may cost more.
Where does my donation go?
100% of your donation goes directly to placing billboards. We do not use donations for salaries or overhead or for a fancy website featuring expensive testimonials or eye catching optics.
Can I choose where my donation is used?
Yes. You can fund a billboard in a specific city or region or allow us to apply your donation to the next available placement.
How can I bring this to my community?
Use the message for free. Running the billboard for one month during each school year helps ensure its life-saving message reaches new generations of teens. Any group in any town can launch a campaign for under ~$2000 annually—no outside involvement required. With consistent yearly participation, this simple effort becomes a powerful tradition that keeps vital truths visible, year after year.
Is this a nonprofit?
Yes. Choose To Not Be Poor is an Arizona nonprofit corporation. Choose To Not Be Poor, Inc. is officially recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. All contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. (Click here for IRS approval letter).
For Skeptics
Why these four choices?
Research from respected organizations like the Brookings Institution, the Institute for Family Studies, and the American Enterprise Institute have proven that young adults who follow a "success sequence"... finish high school, avoid having children outside of marriage, and wait until adulthood to get married have a 97% chance of avoiding becoming poor as an adult. These steps don’t absolutely guarantee success, but they significantly reduce risk. (Click to see published Success Sequence literature)
Why use billboards instead of other interventions?
Billboards are simple, highly visible, and cost-effective. We place them as close as possible to high schools, so they reach hundreds or thousands of students every day—often exactly where important life decisions are made, like walking to school, riding the bus, or moving through neighborhoods. This approach doesn't replace deeper systemic solutions; it adds an immediate, direct cultural message that teens see in their daily lives.
Is this political or religious?
No. The message is nonpartisan and nonreligious. It’s based on empirical evidence from respected American institutions, not ideology.
Does this shame people?
Our intention is not to shame, but to inform and empower. These billboards deliver a short, clear message about proven choices that reduce the risk of becoming poor as an adult.
The billboard message is specifically crafted for high school students. It aims to empower them with clear, evidence-based facts that hold true regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, family structure, or any other circumstances. While others may disagree or take exception, their views are secondary to the mission. The message’s core purpose is to remind every teen that they have the power—and agency—to make choices today that significantly affect whether they become poor as an adult. This truth applies to all young people equally, giving them control over their futures no matter where they start.
For Media & Partners
Who is behind this initiative?
Choose To Not Be Poor was founded by a small group of private citizens who prefer to remain low‑profile. This project isn’t about personalities — it’s about the message.
Can I interview someone about this effort?
Yes. Please contact us to request interviews or additional information at info@choosetonotbepoor.com