ISSUE 348 | March 12, 2025

The Institute is an economic research and applied research and consulting group that provides customized client solutions and strategies to facilitate decision making and planning that enhances growth, impact, and sustainability for organizations.


From Around the Region and the State
Economic and Policy News

Center for Rural PA Finds State’s Maternity Health Desert Growing

According to the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, 23 of the state’s 67 counties, all of which are classified as rural, do not have a hospital offering labor and delivery services.


Between 2011 and 2024, Pennsylvania lost 42 percent of its rural obstetrics units, and residents of the 27 counties without labor services must travel 27 miles on average to access care.


This article discusses findings on maternal health and its growing care gaps in rural Pennsylvania. 


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Young Philadelphians are Turning Students into Voters 

The nonpartisan nonprofit PA Youth Vote is working with students to improve civic education and inspire youth across the state to vote.


Students can work on a 14-week project of choice alongside an in-depth training program, to increase education for voters and political participation.


The organization also offers workshops on local government and how to engage with local civic meetings. 


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PA Invests $4.1M to Expand Schools-to-Work, Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways 

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry has announced an investment of over $4.1 million to support schools-to-work and apprenticeship programs across the state.


Seventeen highlighted programs will prepare high school students for increased job training and post-education careers.


These programs combine classroom learning with real-world experiences and strengthen partnerships between school districts and employers. 


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From Around the Nation and the Globe
Economic and Policy News

Cultivating Well-Being & Sustainability in the Social Sector 

Across the United States, there are rising levels of burnout, employee turnover, and quiet quitting, with workplace wellbeing and metal health becoming a priority for the U.S. Surgeon General.


Employers have lost approximately $154 billion per year in stress-related absenteeism, with nonprofit organizations highlighting mental health as a key emerging issue for their operations.


This article discusses how well-being practices can positively impact organizations and how to increase wellbeing in social sectors. 



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Coordinating to Improve Family Experience Toolkit: Resources for Human Services Agencies

Addressing the complex challenges that families face by using a whole-family approach can help human services programs effectively coordinate high-quality care and increase outcomes for children and families.


Strategies to improve care coordination and program implementation are important for monitoring and sustaining results.


MEF Associates describes its resources toolkit for state and local human services agencies. 


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A Playbook for Nonprofits Facing Revenue Adversity in 2026

During times of financial uncertainty, many nonprofits face a lack of solid or sustainable funding.


Real-world practices that reflect shifting economic or policy conditions can help nonprofits manage demand, opportunities, and challenges.


Nonprofit Financial Commons highlights its playbook for nonprofit leaders to make sound financial and strategic decisions during periods of revenue adversity. 


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