Katena Wesley’s armor of choice stands out in her hometown of Excelsior Springs. Looking put together at all times is time-consuming, but it makes her feel in control of her life, and ready for chance to find her. Under the surface, the 41-year-old pastor’s daughter, who is still living with her parents, is praying feverishly for a sense of purpose.

The number of people living in multigenerational family households in the US has quadrupled in the past 50 years. Between the recession in 2008 and the current economic crisis, Wesley couldn't afford a dignified life on her own with her job as a substitute teacher. She dreams of an office administrator position at a law firm. With a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, she didn’t anticipate staying home much longer if she devoted herself fully to the job search. She is now unemployed, but busy: her days fly by between countless job applications, penny pinching, helping elders and children, and the small joys of being a beloved member of her community.