It is clear that, in spite of the current economic downturn, New York's employers still need workers, and they will need them in the future.

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Planning and Launching Better Models



JobsFirst NYC works with service providers, employers and other stakeholders to take an in-depth look into the needs of particular neighborhoods. What are current providers' strengths? Where do they work together well, and where are services lacking? What are the opportunities for skills training, supportive case management, and referral? What are the hiring demands of local employers? Is there a better way to channel and coordinate efforts to improve outcomes for more young adults? When community-based organizations learn more, they begin to understand the importance of working together. Understanding service gaps within local communities helps groups plan better—and more comprehensive—collaborative efforts.

Current Projects

  • Bronx Young Adult Workforce Collaborative

    Through the Bronx Young Adult Workforce Collaborative, community-based organizations in the Bronx have joined forces to redesign the workforce services available to out-of-school and out-of-work young adults. The collaborative effort seeks to create a framework for a comprehensive continuum of youth training and employment services.


    Key Partners:

    Bronx Community College's Center for Sustainable Energy, Citizen Advice Bureau, Covenant House, CUNY Prep, East Side House Settlement, FEGS, Good Shepherd Services, Grace Outreach, Per Scholas, Phipps Community Development Corp., SOBRO, South Bronx Job Corps Academy, Sustainable South Bronx, and SUNY Bronx Education Opportunity Center

  • The Lower East Side Employment Network
    The Lower East Side Employment Network works closely with employers to provide young people with employment opportunities that offer competitive wages. The program coordinates the efforts of several community-based organizations, which are establishing relationships with local businesses in the growing hospitality and retail sectors.
    Key Partners: Bodanna Studio and Gallery, Bowery Residence Community, Chinese American Planning Council, Chinatown Manpower, Good Old Lower East Side, Henry Street Settlement, University Settlement/The Door, and the Local Community Board

  • The Sunset Park Alliance
    The Sunset Park Alliance is the first youth network model in New York City where all the youth agencies in the neighborhood, along with local employers, are taking responsibility for the well being and progress of young adults by uniting around a shared set of values. This "one neighborhood" approach ensures disconnected youth at Sunset Park have access to the right services at the right time.
    Key Partners: Center for Family Life in Sunset Park, Fifth Avenue Committee and Brooklyn Workforce Innovations, Lutheran HealthCare, Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow, Southwest Brooklyn Industrial Development Corporation (SBIDC), Turning Point, and Kingsborough Community College (CUNY)