The Protective Factors Framework ™ was developed by the Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) as a way to focus on building family, program and community strengths. CSSP’s research led to five Protective Factors that, when all present in a child’s life, lead to optimal lifelong outcomes and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect. The Protective Factors Framework was originally applied in early childhood systems, and later adapted through further research for use with youth as Youth Thrive ™.

All of Soar’s work – elevating community voice, supporting leadership development, improving systems – is designed to increase the presence of Protective Factors in the lives of children, youth, families, and communities.