Jobs that require skills training are the backbone of our economy, helping businesses to sustain growth. More importantly, these jobs offer a path out of poverty. Investments in skills training and access to jobs are critical to achieving financial stability and career success, particularly for those from communities who have been historically excluded from economic opportunities.
Expand access to federal financing for high-quality, short-term programs at community-based organizations and technical colleges, like JEVS’ Orleans Technical College, enables workers who lose their jobs or want to advance or change careers to rapidly reskill.
The United States has a long history of refugee resettlement. These efforts not only provide safe haven to refugees, but also play an invaluable role in the United States’ humanitarian, national security, and foreign policy priorities. The United States resettles the most vulnerable refugees, including women and children, victims of torture, and religious minorities. JEVS’ work with refugees is deeply rooted in our history and continues at our Center for New Americans (CNA).
Refugees are a part of the fabric of American society. They become business owners and homeowners, bringing not only economic opportunities, but a sense of community. They are artists, farmers, CEOs, and Secretaries of State. Most importantly, they are our neighbors.
People with intellectual disabilities and their families deserve an investment in the programs that provide the quality services they need to live as independently as possible. Direct Support Professionals or DSPs, the caring and committed people who support individuals with disabilities, deserve this investment.
A strategy for ongoing investment to fortify this infrastructure and workforce must be prioritized at the state and federal level to build a sustainable system. The returns of this investment are a thriving direct service workforce and people with intellectual disabilities and their families receiving the necessary services to live full and healthy lives.
