Originally scheduled as an in-person event, the NEPA Thrives Workforce Barriers Summit has transitioned to an interactive virtual format via Zoom, ensuring accessibility while maintaining the same valuable content. Hosted by the Scranton Area Community Foundation through our NEPA Thrives initiative, the Summit will bring employers, human resources professionals, executives, and managers together to tackle workforce recruitment and retention challenges across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
This virtual series will include expert-led discussions and solution-driven collaborations, leading up to an in-person wrap-up collaborative on Mayo 1, 2025.
Register for sessions and view detailed descriptions below.
The Scranton Area Community Foundation is dedicated to fostering systemic change and collaborative solutions that benefit employers, workers, and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania. This Summit offers actionable strategies to strengthen organizations and drive economic growth in response to ongoing workforce challenges.
For inquiries, contact Koren Clark, Community Impact Manager, at koren@safdn.org.
Workforce Barriers Summit Schedule
Febrero 27 — Workforce Landscape and Sector-Focused Collaboration in The Care Economy
2:00 – 4:00 PM
The first hour, led by The Institute, will explore workforce dynamics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including in-demand occupations, labor market trends and COVID-19 impacts. A panel featuring experts from the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, Geisinger, The Institute and JobsFirstNYC will follow, discussing sector-focused strategies to address workforce recruitment and retention challenges in the Care Economy. Participants will learn about local healthcare demand, industry partnerships, and strengthening talent pipelines.
Marzo 6 — NEPA Workforce Landscape and Sector-Focused Collaboration
9:00 – 11:00 AM
If you miss the session on Febrero 27, join us on Jueves, Marzo 6, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The Institute will present on the workforce landscape, followed by a discussion on regional workforce challenges. Experts will explore how employers, community organizations, and education providers can collaborate to address recruitment and retention barriers, highlighting promising practices and strategies with insights from JobsFirstNYC.
Marzo 13 — Workforce Strengthening Programs
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Several organizations and programs are working with potential employees to strengthen the workforce and place skilled, qualified individuals in family-sustaining employment. Come learn about the programs and how regional employers can benefit from their work.
Marzo 19 — Childcare Panel
1:00 – 2:00 PM
Childcare needs often cause parents to postpone school and training programs or return to the workforce, or they simply leave the workforce because they are unaware of the support and resources that are available to them and their employers. Employers who collaborate with and are knowledgeable of state subsidies, supportive childcare providers, and open to outside-the-box initiatives can begin to address some of the challenges faced by their existing employees.
Marzo 21 — Employment Resources Panel
10:00 – 11:00 AM
Historically, the PA Careerlink is seen as a resource for individuals seeking employment while Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Initiatives focus on business and industry, however the need for workforce development efforts in order to promote economic growth throughout the region has inspired collaboration and the need for a systemic approach. Learn from leaders throughout the region about existing resources and how businesses can contribute to the efforts.
Marzo 24 — Transportation Panel
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Transportation is a key to recruiting and retaining a strong workforce, however only 12% of the region uses public transportation, and while 70-80% of the US population commutes to work the number of potential employees without access to vehicles or public transportation that connects with open positions continues to be a challenge. In order to identify highly qualified potential employees and retain a reliable workforce come learn about some of the programs and services available within the region.
Abril 3 — Unlocking Business Growth through Community Foundation Partnerships
1:00 – 2:00 PM
This presentation will highlight the numerous benefits businesses gain from partnering with Community Foundations, such as increased employee retention and productivity through access to scholarships and hardship funds. By offering these resources, companies not only support their employees’ personal and professional growth but also foster a more loyal, motivated workforce. Additionally, businesses can broaden their reach and enhance their brand by supporting philanthropic efforts, including scholarships, which contribute to community development and enhance their reputation as socially responsible entities.
Abril 9 — K-12 Education Panel
1:00 – 2:00 PM
The PA Department of Education knows that the future of a strong workforce starts as soon as children enter school. Gaining an understanding of the career benchmarks in K-12 education, current programming to support career development, and identifying ways in which employers can partner will inevitably enhance their workforce pipeline and lead to economic growth throughout the region.
Abril 14 — Harnessing Immigrant Talent: Strategies for Economic Development and Workforce Solutions
1:00 – 2:00 PM
This talk will explore the vital role immigrants play in driving economic growth. We’ll examine the employment barriers that international talent face, and strategies for recruiting and retaining foreign populations. Additionally, we will highlight success stories of employers and cities effectively incorporating immigrants into their workforce. Attendees will learn how to access new talent pipelines and meet workforce needs through engaging international communities.
Abril 21 — How Collaborative Efforts Can Address Economic Mobility In NEPA
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Economic mobility is the cornerstone of thriving communities, and community foundations across the country play a vital role in convening stakeholders to break down barriers and invest in solutions that support upward mobility. Addressing workforce development, transportation, and equitable housing together is key to this mission. Affordable housing enables workers to live near job opportunities, reducing costly commutes that hinder stable employment, while equitable transportation expands access to jobs, especially for hourly and low-wage workers. When aligned with workforce development efforts, these investments create inclusive economies that foster opportunity, reduce income inequality, and promote long-term economic stability.
The Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Community Impact Team is leading efforts to bring local stakeholders together to tackle these challenges and create pathways to economic mobility across the region. Join them to learn how community foundations nationwide are driving solutions that build more equitable and prosperous communities.