Reflecting on the End 2024 Capacity Building

Public Training Achievements

A commitment to learning and growth lies at the heart of workforce development, and our Capacity-Building team has been working tirelessly to foster both. This quarter, on October 23rd, we reached a significant milestone with our first-ever “Collaborative Strategies for Equitable Outcomes” webinar.

Seventeen participants, including representatives from organizations like the Obama Foundation and the Department of Labor, gathered to explore our Anti-Racist Framework. Together, we tackled questions many leaders face: How do we move beyond Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to actively dismantle systemic racism in our workplaces? Through thoughtful discussions and small group interactions, attendees left not only with strategies but also with a sense of empowerment to create real change.

This session was more than a webinar—it was a spark. And as we plan future sessions, we aim to keep that momentum alive, ensuring equity is at the forefront of workforce development practices.

Customized Trainings and Facilitator Excellence

Finding the right facilitator is an art, and this fall we expanded our pool of trusted External Facilitators. These professionals bring more than expertise; they bring passion, understanding, and a commitment to CJC’s values.

Each facilitator embodies the principles we hold dear: respecting diverse learning styles, building relationships, and creating a space where vulnerability is welcome. One participant shared, “The facilitator made complex topics approachable and left me feeling hopeful and renewed.”

As we continue to develop training opportunities, we know the right facilitator makes all the difference—not just in delivering content, but in inspiring attendees to take what they’ve learned and transform their communities.

IDHS Training Successes

The new team hit the ground running, refining processes and facilitating trainings. With determination and creativity, our Program Manager developed four new training modules tailored to the evolving needs of SNAP & TANF providers.

These trainings—like "Fostering Growth Mindsets" and "Sustaining Provider Well-Being"—touched on vital topics, from emotional support for frontline staff to equipping job seekers with the skills they need to thrive. One standout moment was a Community of Practice session where providers shared their experiences with burnout. By normalizing these feelings and providing tools for self-care, the session became a safe space for growth and renewal.

In total, we hosted 15 IDHS trainings, welcoming 108 attendees who left equipped not just with knowledge but with the confidence to apply it in their work. As we move into Q3, we’re excited to focus on boundaries—a direct request from participants—and continue supporting those who support others.