Read our workforce development Social Issue Report, which includes: an overview of the social issue, an investment recommendation, information on the return on investment, and ways to take further action.

Workforce development is the field dedicated to preparing low-skilled workers to gain and retain employment in industries that provide opportunities for advancement but do not require a post-secondary degree. Economic costs due to unemployment could be reduced and recuperated over time, with studies showing a social return on investment as high as $9.10 per dollar invested in high-performing programs. These reports focus on job training for adults facing multiple barriers to employment, including but not limited to lack of work experience, past criminal record, and homelessness.

Learn more about workforce development in Massachusetts and New York.

Check out our Guide to Giving for donors and funders interested in workforce development.

ABOUT SOCIAL ISSUE RESEARCH:

Social Issue Research (SIR) reports are a resource to help donors and funders learn about specific social issues affecting at-risk populations and identify high-performing organizations that are addressing those issues. Drawing on research and interviews with experts representing government, academia, nonprofits, and foundations, social issue reports provide an overview of the issue, populations affected by it, approaches to address it, and investment recommendations on how donors and funders can take action. The report is complemented by state reports that frame the issue in the local context and a method – a guide for donors – that provides criteria to evaluate organizations working to address the issue.