CJC’s Commitment to Continuous Learning
Our commitment to continuous learning extends not only to the community we serve, but also to us as an organization. Each year CJC’s internal team sets a learning agenda, and in FY25 our staff will be focused on advancing anti-racist practices, enhancing cross-team collaboration, and developing leadership skills to foster inclusive and equitable systems. By driving innovation and staying informed on industry trends, they ensure their approaches remain relevant and effective in serving diverse communities.
This quarter, staff engaged in several initiatives to further our knowledge, collaboration, and dedication to upholding the values of the Chicago Jobs Council.
From July 2023 to August 2024, Clair Minson of Sandra Grace LLC partnered with CJC to facilitate a quarterly Learning Series focused on advancing anti-racism in workforce development. These sessions empowered staff to identify their learning goals and deepen their understanding of anti-racist practices. The final session, titled "Connecting the Dots & Practical Application," allowed our team to review the lessons learned throughout the series and determine the ongoing support needed to ensure our leaders are equipped with the tools to continue advancing our Anti-Racism Framework.
Additionally, Heather Ana Hathaway Miranda facilitated an "Understanding and Collaborating Across Workstyles" workshop in September. This session focused on improving cross-team collaboration by helping staff reflect on their personal workstyles and develop strategies for effective communication in a diverse workplace. By learning about different workstyles and sharing best practices, our team is better prepared to foster strong collaboration and ensure alignment with our mission.
These learning opportunities for staff demonstrate our continued dedication to creating an inclusive, growth-minded work environment where every team member can learn, contribute, and lead.
