Creating Change

Summary

This report explores a few examples of workforce development strategies and systems reforms implemented as part of the Casey Foundation’s Jobs Initiative. Through case studies from Seattle to New Orleans, the report illustrates workforce programs, partnerships and policies that are working, and how to navigate some common challenges in pushing for reform. 

Table of Contents

• Table of Contents
• Common First Steps
• Most Significant Reforms
• Seattle: Building Capacity of Community-Based Organizations
• Seattle: Flexible Support for Job Seekers
• Milwaukee: The Workforce Attachment and Advancement Fund
• Milwaukee: Creating a Model for Multi-Sector Labor Market Intermediation
• New Orleans: Upgrading Machinist Training at Delgado Community College
• New Orleans: The 21st- Century Success Principles Pre-Employment Training Model
• St. Louis: Organizing Providers to Change Standards and Goals
• Philadelphia: Organizing Employers for Policy Change
• Lessons, Conclusions
• Appendix A: Overview of Case Studies

Key Takeaway

Reforming Workforce Policies and Programs

Existing workforce policies too often emphasize short-term job placement without regard for workers’ training, advancement and long-term employability. A lack of resources and inadequate collaboration among businesses and community-based organizations form the basis of job seekers’ barriers to success. Establishing ties among business, labor and community-based providers can raise job quality, create training opportunities and ensure long-term success for workers.