Simulation raises awareness of reintegration struggles    

Interactive simulations allow people to better understand challenges presented by circumstances such as poverty and domestic abuse.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania recently organized a simulation that reveals struggles faced by individuals re-entering society after incarceration.

Former inmates must navigate numerous barriers – often with little or no support – and many resort to illegal activities to meet their needs, contributing to high recidivism rates.

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Municipal budgeting covers climate action in Pittsburgh 

Leadership in Pittsburgh is addressing environmental and equity concerns through priority-based budgeting.

The city is to use existing resources to achieve 100 percent renewable energy, secure a fossil-free fleet, and ensure zero-waste operations.

Efforts to demonstrate accountability and transparency are evident in a public-facing online tool through which users can learn about city-funded programs and their benefits.

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County health department launches pilot to build the perinatal workforce  

Maternal mortality rates in the U.S. triple those in other developed countries, with people of color facing greatest risk.

Maternal health care is particularly sparse in the southeast region of the state, so the Delaware County Health Department is using $954,000 of federal funding to improve maternal and infant care outcomes.

The workforce development pilot program is designed to train perinatal community health workers and doulas.

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East Austin ministry uses community to battle chronic homelessness     

Mobile Loaves & Fishes is a social outreach ministry with a mission to end chronic homelessness in Austin, Texas.

Its Community First! Village spans 51 acres and consists of manufactured tiny homes, microhomes, and RVs.

The retention rate of its 350 residents is 88 percent, with capacity set to triple thanks to millions in new investments.

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Economic insecurity rises as pandemic relief dissipates   

Pandemic aid such as emergency rental assistance, child tax credits, and expanded eligibility for food and medical benefits have effectively served communities across the country.

As those measures are lifted, however, economic insecurity is quickly rising – with homelessness among the top threats.

Social service professionals in areas like Oakland County, Michigan report growing need and difficulty offering support to “hidden” homeless.

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Entrepreneur trains at-risk youth while promoting environmental justice  

AMB Renewable Energy, Inc. is a Chicago-based company that addresses issues pertaining to disinvestment and pollution.

The company also operates a workforce development program through which at-risk youth are trained to fill green jobs.

They spend 30 to 40 hours over a span of six to eight weeks learning about solar installation, heating and cooling systems, and EV charging.

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