Together We Thrive: Empowering Workforce Organizations with Shared Resources
The workforce development field is facing a rapidly shifting landscape due to policy changes, funding uncertainties, and evolving employer needs. As direct service providers, your role in supporting job seekers is more critical than ever. However, preparing individuals for meaningful employment now requires adapting to new challenges, advocating for equitable workforce policies, and ensuring programs remain resilient.
Chicago Jobs Council is committed to equipping the workforce sector with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate these uncertain times. Below are key areas to focus on and resources to help strengthen your impact.
1. Emphasizing the Value of Workforce Development
Workforce development is about more than just job placement—it’s about creating sustainable pathways to economic stability for individuals, businesses, and communities. Yet, as funding freezes and policy rollbacks threaten critical programs, it’s important to articulate the value of this work.
Strengthening local economies: A well-prepared workforce fuels business growth and community resilience.
Enhancing human services: Stable employment reduces reliance on social services and improves family well-being.
Meeting employer needs: Workforce programs bridge the gap between job seekers and in-demand industries.
Resource: Forefront Library – Research reports and data to reinforce the impact.
2. Addressing Policy Challenges & the Pushback on DEIA
Recent political shifts have put diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) efforts at risk. From the rollback of President Lyndon Johnson’s Executive Order 11246 to changes at the EEOC, organizations must be prepared to advocate for equitable workforce policies.
What You Can Do:
Educate stakeholders on how DEIA policies benefit businesses and communities.
Push back against harmful narratives that suggest equitable hiring practices are unnecessary.
Leverage data to show how diverse, inclusive workplaces contribute to economic growth.
Resources:
National Council of Nonprofits – Guide to advocacy strategies.
Chart of Executive Orders Affecting Nonprofits – Overview of Federal Policy Shifts.
3. Navigating Legal Compliance Amid Political Shifts
Legal compliance can be especially challenging in a political climate marked by frequent changes and ambiguity. The language around policies and regulations is intentionally vague, leaving organizations uncertain about where to draw the line.
Key Takeaways from National Skills Coalition Webinar - Legal Compliance in Challenging Times led by Allen Mattison
Risk Tolerance Varies Across Organizations: Each organization has its own level of risk tolerance when it comes to legal compliance. Define what level of risk is acceptable for your organization, and create clear boundaries based on your understanding of potential consequences.
The "Chaos" is Intentional: The ambiguity and confusion surrounding legal issues are by design, and it’s important to navigate this uncertainty with awareness. Operating within this environment requires careful consideration and proactive strategies.
Advocacy is Not Crossing the Line: Talking about policies, attending discussions, and engaging in conversations about critical issues is not necessarily crossing the line. Advocacy involves raising awareness, educating stakeholders, and encouraging systemic change without explicitly promoting specific legislation. Lobbying, on the other hand, involves directly influencing policymakers to support or oppose particular legislative actions. What’s important is to define and understand your organization’s role in the policy change ecosystem—whether that’s advocating for change, engaging in educational efforts, or navigating the nuances of permissible lobbying activities.
What You Can Do:
Establish clear policies within your organization about risk tolerance and legal boundaries.
Engage in policy discussions responsibly and remain informed about evolving regulations that impact workforce development.
Resources:
National Council of Nonprofits – Advocacy resources for navigating legal landscapes.
Economic Policy Institute Data – Data to guide advocacy and policy discussions.
4. Responding to Funding Uncertainty
With federal funding freezes and potential budget cuts, workforce development organizations must prepare for financial challenges. Diversifying funding sources and strengthening partnerships can help sustain services for job seekers.
What You Can Do:
Advocate for workforce funding at local and federal levels.
Seek alternative funding through grants, philanthropy, and employer partnerships.
Build financial resilience with scenario planning and sustainable budgeting.
Resources:
Economic Policy Institute Data – Use workforce data to strengthen funding proposals and advocacy.
Social Current Trends Report – Insights on funding strategies and workforce trends.
5. Strengthening Employer Partnerships
On-the-job training (OJT), Apprenticeships, Work Experience (WEX), and Incumbent Worker Training are more than workforce development tools—they’re strategic investments that directly benefit employers. These models allow businesses to cultivate a skilled workforce tailored to their needs while reducing hiring risks and turnover. In a competitive market, these strategies provide tangible advantages to employers:
Cost Savings: Wage reimbursements, shared training costs, and access to funding make workforce models like OJT and WEX financially appealing.
Productivity Boosts: Tailored training ensures employees are well-prepared to contribute immediately.
Employee Retention: Incumbent Worker Training and Apprenticeships create a loyal workforce by offering opportunities for career advancement and skill growth.
Community Impact: Employers engaged in these programs strengthen their ties to the community and contribute to building a robust local economy.
Advocating for Employer Buy-In
To help employers see the value, frame these strategies as solutions that address their workforce challenges while enhancing their bottom line. Highlight how these approaches align with their goals of efficiency, loyalty, and innovation.
How to Engage Employers:
Share data and success stories that demonstrate ROI for participating employers.
Emphasize partnerships with workforce boards and training providers as seamless pathways to implementation.
Position these programs as tools to future-proof their workforce in rapidly changing industries.
Resource: WorkforceGPS Employer Engagement and Sector Strategies – Guidance for developing impactful employer partnerships and sector-focused approaches.
Moving Forward: Building Resilience in Workforce Development
Workforce development providers must be prepared to navigate an unpredictable political climate while continuing to serve job seekers effectively. By advocating for funding, strengthening employer partnerships, and using data-driven strategies, organizations can build a more resilient workforce system.
At Chicago Jobs Council, we are here to support you in this work. Explore the resources linked above, stay engaged in advocacy efforts, and connect with fellow workforce providers to share strategies for success.
Let’s work together to ensure job seekers—and the systems that support them—thrive in any political climate.
