Individual Development Account Participation and Social Development among Native Hawaiians

Native Hawaiians face complex psychosocial and economic challenges. This longitudinal study examines the social development outcomes among 252 low-income Native Hawaiians who participated in an Individual Development Account (IDA) program. IDAs are matched savings accounts for the poor that encourage asset accumulation. Data were collected in a survey of participants on average of seven years following program enrollment. Regression results show that IDA graduation significantly predicts two of three indicators of social development-assets-to-debts ratio and home ownership-but failed to explain educational advancement. Findings indicate that asset-based social policies may promote social development of Native Hawaiians under certain conditions.