Work That Makes Life Sweet

Guaranteed income has proven to provide participants with the time and financial stability to make more intentional choices about their livelihoods.

Below you’ll find stories from In Her Hands participants, sharing how no-strings-attached cash support has empowered them to pursue Work That Makes Life Sweet—whether it's finding work that offers better pay, sparks joy, inspires creativity, allows for more family time, or enables them to reduce or pause work entirely.

All art below was created by Atlanta-based artist and muralist Charity Hamidullah. Narratives as told by Eshe Shukura, Narrative, and Cultural Strategist.

The Work That Makes Life Sweet campaign was inspired by the late Black feminist writer bell hooks who makes the case for pursuing labor we enjoy and honoring our “right livelihood.”

  • C. Harper

    C. Harper grew up knowing the weight of financial insecurity. For her, work wasn’t just a job—it was survival, a way to support her family and navigate a world of scarcity. But through her participation in GRO's #InHerHands guaranteed income program she found a new balance in life.

    From survival to sweetness, learn how C. Harper was able to pursue her passion for teaching, building a life that’s more fulfilling.

    Read her story

  • Ana G.

    After moving to Atlanta to pursue her logistics career, Ana G. faced some of life's toughest challenges: job loss, homelessness, and raising two children. Through it all, she found resilience.

    Guaranteed income allowed her to stay afloat and now she's working at a company she loves, planning her own fashion business, and raising her children in stability. Learn how #InHerHands helped Ana weather the storm and take control of her future.

    Read her story

Financial insecurity limits choices.

Did you know that 61% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck?

For many, not having the opportunity to pursue meaningful work hinders them from improving their lives and livelihoods. With GI, the possibilities expand.

When individuals have the security and flexibility of cash support, they can make employment choices that align with their personal circumstances, goals, and values, leading to increased life satisfaction. One study showed an increase in full-time employment from 28% to 40%.