Federal actions are threatening opportunities for job seekers and workforce organizations across Illinois. See how Chicago Jobs Council is stepping up to protect equity and opportunity through a letter to the Governor's office. Learn more about our key recommendations and how we’re working with partners to drive change. Special thank you to all the partner organizations who have signed on to this letter.

As Illinois enters a pivotal legislative session, the decisions made in the coming months will shape workforce development for years to come. Advocacy is essential to ensure that funding prioritizes equity and supports job seekers facing systemic barriers.

Discover how robust funding and dedicated leadership, including the need for a Chief Workforce Officer in Chicago, can drive meaningful change for workers, communities, and the workforce development system.

In a shifting policy landscape, workforce development organizations must advocate for equity and adapt to changing federal and state dynamics. Learn how to navigate challenges like the rescinding of DEI policies, funding freezes, and the need for stronger partnerships to ensure equal opportunities for marginalized communities.

Recent executive actions threaten workforce equity by dismantling programs that support job seekers, employment specialists, and inclusive hiring practices. These changes put essential workforce development initiatives and opportunities for marginalized communities at risk. Learn how Chicago Jobs Council is advocating for equity and fighting to protect access to meaningful employment for all.

As we observe Poverty in America Awareness Month, it's crucial to recognize the profound impact of poverty in our communities. Nationally, 11.5% of the population—approximately 37.9 million people—live in poverty, facing significant barriers to securing family-supporting jobs and a hopeful future.

The situation mirrors the national landscape in Illinois, with 12.1% of residents living below the federal poverty line. In Chicago, the poverty rate is notably higher at 16.8%, affecting more than 450,000 individuals.

Pay transparency is a critical step toward creating equitable workplaces where fairness and opportunity thrive. With the recent amendment to the Illinois Equal Pay Act now in effect, Illinois employers with 15 or more employees must include pay scales and benefits in job postings, ensuring job seekers have access to essential information. This policy, championed by Chicago Jobs Council and our Skills Agenda Table partners, helps remove employment barriers and fosters accountability in hiring practices.

 At Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), our recent Workforce Convo highlighted key strategies for navigating this changed political landscape. While methods may evolve, our core values of equity, opportunity, and systemic change remain constant. Here are ten actionable takeaways from our conversation to help you stay mission-driven and impactful in the year ahead.

Chicago’s guaranteed income program has been cut from the city budget, a decision that impacts thousands of low-income households and derails opportunities to measure its long-term benefits. At the Chicago Jobs Council, we believe guaranteed income is a vital step toward creating economic equity and strengthening communities. It’s time for Chicago to prioritize sustainable funding for programs like these to ensure every resident has the support they need to thrive.

Discover how the Chicago Jobs Council serves as an essential intermediary in workforce development, driving equitable change through advocacy, training, and partnerships. Learn how we connect job seekers, training providers, employers, and policymakers to create lasting opportunities and systemic solutions.

On October 9, 2024, the Chicago Jobs Council hosted a CJC Workforce Convo focused on Bridging Expectations: Enhancing Job Satisfaction and Retention for Young Workers. The event featured insights from workforce leaders, career coaches, and—most importantly—young adults themselves. The conversation centered on how we can better understand, support, and retain Gen Z workers, who bring a unique perspective and set of challenges to the workforce.