Spring 2017 Newsletter

CWC Celebrates a Successful Transition

On May 11th, Commonwealth Workforce Coalition (CWC) held its 14th Annual Sharing Skills~Building Connections Conference in Sturbridge. Workforce development professionals from across Massachusetts came together to share their skills and experiences.

This year’s Keynote speaker, Ronald G. Marlow, Vice President for Workforce Development at National Urban League (and a former member of CEDAC’s board), spoke about meeting the needs of disadvantaged populations. Marlow is responsible for development, delivery and oversight of the workforce development programs for the National Urban League, delivered at the local community level by NUL affiliates. Mr. Marlow delivered a powerful message of equality and called upon the audience to act.

“Sometimes, we get so busy doing our job that we forget to do the work associated with doing the job — connecting with stakeholders, informing and bringing along allies, and engaging those who may be antagonistic to mitigate their concerns,” said Marlow at the conference.

Following the keynote, attendees participated in 3 sessions, choosing from among an offering of 27 workshops. Workshops covered a range of topics including workforce development for youth and young adults, collaboration and partnerships, and working with job seekers. Attendees left the conference with tools to better provide employment services in their communities.

In 2016, CEDAC entered into a partnership with the University of Massachusetts Boston’s Center for Social Policy (CSP) to administer CWC.  CSP, which is based at the McCormack Graduate School, took the lead for this year’s conference and once again, it was a success.  Roger Herzog, CEDAC’s executive director, spoke at the conference, thanking CSP for their work and officially turning CWC over to Susan Crandall, Director of the Center for Social Policy. Susan recognized and thanked CEDAC for its role as founding partner of CWC and its ongoing commitment to community economic development. CEDAC will continue to support CWC’s work – providing training and networking opportunities to workforce development professionals – as a key building block of community development.

Two participants gave the following feedback:

“I left the conference feeling rejuvenated and empowered; the latter sentiment I plan to bring back to the clients whom I serve.”

“The breakout sessions were specific, informative, and practical. Too often I find these things to reiterate the same general, basic information/techniques (e.g. three cups of tea). I feel like I came with real resources that are relevant to the people I serve.”