Workforce Development for Working Families

A Solution in Search of Civic Commitment

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation

July 1, 2004

Summary

This article by the Casey Foundation's Family Economic Success initiative, describes how communities can create successful workforce initiatives based on lessons and findings from the Foundation's Jobs Initiative (JI). The need for a more integrated, wholistic approach to cultivating the skills of those who lack vital job opportunities is more important today than ever before.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Workforce Training no longer meets the needs of today's employers or job seekers

The emerging development of “workforce development” signals the recognition that businesses and workers are both key customers. The emphasis is on long-term labor market retention, career advancement and family self-sufficiency, not just on job-placement.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations