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Our Response to COVID-19: How Workforce Boards Are Making a Difference During the Pandemic

A Letter to the Community

Just as we have been getting used to a new normal for our lives in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, racial inequities, and the tragic deaths of several individuals in recent weeks have all contributed a firestorm of protests that have brought injustice and racism to the forefront and compelled us to confront the racism in our society.

The North Carolina Association of Workforce Development Boards (NCAWDB), through our network of NCWorks Career Centers, is committed to providing all residents with the career services, resources and support needed to achieve economic prosperity. This includes support such as tuition assistance for credential attainment, work experience opportunities and employment assistance, along with supportive services that help to remove barriers to employment.  Workforce Boards work with thousands of employers to connect them with the skilled talent they need.

At our core are the following values:

  • We value the voices, experiences, cultures, intellect and multidimensionality of all people;
  • We value the ability of individuals and support system change in ways that make racial justice possible;
  • We value diversity and believe that equity and inclusion make us stronger;
  • We value honest, open and clear communications, and voicing and sharing our viewpoints with integrity even when difficult, unpopular, or risky;
  • We value relevance and resourcefulness in the face of changing social, economic, political, and ideological environments; AND
  • We will continue our work in making our services and programs accessible and open to all individuals, especially communities that have been traditionally underserved.

From education, skills training, work experience, and employment, local workforce development boards are dedicated to assisting individuals in gaining the skills needed to obtain employment that allows them to provide and thrive.

While so many elements of the future remain uncertain, in collaboration with our leadership, local Workforce Development Board members, and Directors, NCAWDB will continue to support a workforce system that is inclusive and continue to advocate for all residents.

Media Contact: Dr. Stephanie Deese
Executive Director, NCAWDB
919.414.2085
[email protected]

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About North Carolina Association of Workforce Development Boards (NCAWDB)

NCAWDB is a 501(c)6 and the voice for workforce development in North Carolina. We work collectively to plan, coordinate, oversee, and deliver workforce solutions through the NCWorks system. Our Boards help more people and businesses across the state gain access to programs and services that make North Carolina one of the most skilled, productive, and motivated workforce systems in the nation.