CITIworks and The 5% Solution Strategy is a self-help book that offers an economic plan for local black business communities to become economic engines that restore vitality to American cities, which have been in decline for decades. The guiding principle of that plan calls on black individuals, businesses, and community, civic, and philanthropic organizations to increase their spending in the black community by 5 percent year over year. The plan was developed on the premise that a 5 percent annual increase in spending of the Black Dollar in the black community and turning that dollar over as many times as possible before it exits the community will create a positive and measurable Return on Investment that all stakeholders can see and understand. The book deals honestly with the myths and prejudices about black business but does not offer them as an excuse for the conditions of blacks in America today. Instead it presents America's racist past in a historical context to show how black businesses have continued to operate and grow in spite of the times and the obstacles black entrepreneurs faced and continue to face. As part of that context, the book shows how recent and current efforts have sought to bring black businesses into the economic mainstream but have fallen several critical steps short. Finally, CITIworks and The 5% Solution Strategy lay out a detailed plan that any local group can use to take those last steps and replicate and implement them in any city in America. How can local enthusiasts be sure this is a workable plan and not just a theory? Because, the book points out, CITIworks and The 5% Solution Strategy are already being designed in seven cities in Georgia.
About the Author: From community gatherings in small churches to White House councils, Joseph Hudson has spent more than 40 years helping rural and urban black communities redefine themselves as important to the modern world. CITIworks and the 5% Solution Strategy is an expression of his heart-felt commitment for the advance and success of the black community. Mr. Hudson believes the key to fulfilling his life's dream of raising the quality of life for black people lies in collaboration and planning, which he is convinced will eventually bring about much-needed cooperation and long-awaited recognition. He continues his work in this area today and is actively seeking to help black communities find their voice and become a valuable resource to American cities.