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Dear Orange County Community,
We are excited to extend an invitation to you and your organization to participate in the California Jobs First Economic Development Capacity Building Initiative. This program is designed to empower organizations that serve disinvested communities by providing essential knowledge and resources related to economic development.
California Jobs First, formerly CERF (Community Economic Resilience Fund), is a statewide initiative and fund to build an inclusive, sustainable, and equitable economy across California, with a focus on supporting new strategies to diversify local economies and develop industries that create high-quality, broadly accessible jobs.
Event Details:
Seminar Series: Five one-hour lunch and learns
Schedule: Every Wednesday starting August 7th, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Location: Zoom (details to follow)
Seminar Topics and Dates:
Seminar 1: Wednesday, August 7
Overview of Traditional Economic Development and Inclusive/Triple Bottom Line Economic Development
Speaker: Ish Herrera, California Forward
Seminar 2: Wednesday, August 14
Empowering Disinvested Community Voices through Data and Mapping
Speaker: Candice Mays, Voice Media Ventures
Seminar 3: Wednesday, August 21
Understanding the Role of Cities in Economic Development
Speakers: Julie Castro, City of Santa Ana; Ursula Luna-Reynosa, City of Garden Grove
Seminar 4: Wednesday, August 28
How CBOs Can Get Involved in Workforce Development
Speakers: Dr. Su Jin Jez and David Radwin, California Competes; Annette Whittle, Orange Workforce Alliance
Please note: Additional speakers to be added
Seminar 5: Wednesday, September 4
Examples of Inclusive or Triple Bottom Line Economic Development
Speaker: Luis Sarmiento, THRIVE Santa Ana
Please note: Additional speakers to be added
We aim to bring together a cohort of no more than 50 organizations to attend these seminars. Each participant will receive $75 per seminar, up to a maximum of $375, provided they attend at least 4 out of the 5 sessions. The gift card distribution will be managed by the Orange County Business Council (OCBC).
Purpose:
A long-term target outcome for California Jobs First is to increase the capacity of organizations serving disinvested communities to be more engaged in economic development planning and decision-making, and ultimately to seek and administer federal and state grants.
Why Participate in This Program?:
- Expand Your Expertise: Gain valuable insights and knowledge from industry leaders and seasoned professionals in economic development, equipping your organization with the tools to better serve your community.
- Build Strategic Partnerships: Connect with other organizations, government agencies, and businesses dedicated to economic development, fostering collaborations that can enhance your advocacy efforts and amplify your impact.
- Increase Funding Opportunities: Enhance your ability to seek and manage federal and state grants aimed at community improvement projects, ensuring more resources for your initiatives and the communities you serve.
- Influence Policy and Planning: Equip your organization with the knowledge to participate effectively in local planning and policy discussions, ensuring the voices of disinvested communities are heard and their needs are addressed.
- Empower Your Community: By understanding and contributing to economic development, your organization can foster a sense of ownership and long-term growth within the communities you serve, driving sustainable change.
- Earn Financial Rewards: Receive up to $375 for your participation in the seminar series, providing a financial incentive for your organization to engage and learn. Don't miss this opportunity to empower your organization and make a significant impact in Orange County. Register now to secure your spot.
For more information and to register, please find the link here.
We look forward to your participation in this transformative initiative.
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