Jimmy Hayes

This week in “What’s New in Digital Equity” — Kansas is expanding Internet access and digital literacy, local governments in Ohio are investing in skills training, a new workshop series focuses on artificial intelligence use, and more.https://bit.ly/4l8LyTw

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As over 1.4 million Ohioans face delays to SNAP benefits, CFAES and Ohio State University Extension are bridging the gap through education and community partnerships. Learn more: https://bit.ly/47D9QRC

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🌟 The Women’s Fund is proud to serve as a leader of Economic Mobility Alliance Ohio (EMAO) — a collaborative effort driving solutions that help Ohioans achieve lasting financial stability. EMAO brings together advocates, researchers, workforce and human service organizations, and funders to tackle benefits cliffs — the system of disincentives that can make it harder for individuals to advance in their careers without losing essential supports. Together, we’re working to raise awareness, shape practical policy solutions, and build a pathway where work truly pays for all Ohioans. 💡 Learn more about our work, meet our partners, and find out how to get involved: 👉 https://lnkd.in/gAyXBz8k #EconomicMobility #OhioWorkforce #BenefitsCliffs #SystemsChange

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#ICYMI Groundwork Ohio's Budget Impact Report, highlights what 18 months of advocacy has delivered for Ohio’s youngest children and families. Thanks to strong partnerships and credible data, we helped secure more than $89.5 million in new state investments supporting: 🤲 early childhood health 🤲 early childhood development 🤲 family support and stability 📖 Read the full report: https://ow.ly/yR3X50X7mkR #GroundworkOhio #OhioKids #EarlyChildhood #TurningThePage

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It takes more than a good idea to build a thriving local news organization. In Indiana, it took a coalition: journalists, civic and philanthropic leaders and residents — all working toward a shared goal With early research, startup capital, and a dedicated team in place, AJP-supported Free Press Indiana launched Mirror Indy. One year in, it’s delivering impact: investigations into local government, actionable housing explainers, and a Documenters program that has trained nearly 300 residents to cover public meetings. With 19 journalists, a growing community-centered reporting model, and a business team focused on long-term sustainability, Mirror Indy is demonstrating what’s possible when mission, model, and community align. Head the comments to read more on what’s working and what others can learn from it.

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How’s your county doing? The Upjohn Institute just released the latest Michigan County Economic Vitality Index, evaluating all 83 counties on seven metrics - including employment, income, education, and industry mix - to shine a light on local economic health and momentum.   Key findings: - 12 counties improved their overall economic vitality classification. (Allegan, Clinton, Leelanau, Antrim, Benzie, Dickinson, Lapeer, Otsego, Iron, Oceana, Ontonagon and Roscommon.) - 3 counties slipped into less competitive categories. (Saginaw, Alcona and Ogemaw)  - Prime-age employment is rising in nearly every corner of the state.   This index gives local leaders a clear, county-level view of economic momentum - and where support is needed most.   Explore the full rankings and data: https://lnkd.in/evSSUhzp   #MichiganEconomy #EconomicDevelopment #DataDrivenPolicy #UpjohnInstitute

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Outreach is back at the Statehouse this session, working to protect and support the young people we serve. Every legislative session is a chance to bring real stories into rooms where big decisions are made. This year, we’re focused on three urgent areas that directly affect unhoused youth and young adults across Indiana. 🔺Supporting homeless students Too many students experiencing homelessness face delays getting back into school simply because they don’t have access to required documents. We’re working to amend HB 1004 so youth can enroll without unnecessary paperwork standing in the way. Our ARCH coaches see this barrier every day, and it keeps students from moving forward with their education. We’re also supporting HB 1195, which expands a successful pilot program that helps students who’ve fallen behind access career counseling and trade certifications before completing their HSE exam. For youth navigating instability, flexible pathways make a real difference. 🔺Increasing opportunities for housing We’re supporting HB 1001 and SB 205, which would allow churches and faith-based organizations like Outreach to develop affordable housing more easily by removing zoning and code barriers. These bills recognize the role community organizations play in addressing the housing crisis and would help us expand safe, stable options for the young people we serve. We’re also supporting HB 1128, which would protect youth from being denied housing based on their source of income. Many of our young adults rely on rental assistance, disability income, or Social Security. This bill would open more doors and reduce discrimination. 🔺Opposing the criminalization of homelessness We’re opposing SB 285, which would introduce misdemeanor charges and fines for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Last year, similar bills were defeated. This year, the threat is back. Criminalizing homelessness does not create housing. It creates records, fines, and more barriers. For youth who have no safe place to go, this kind of policy only makes stability harder to reach. Outreach will continue to show up, speak up, and advocate for the dignity and safety of every young person we serve. Thank you for standing with us as we work to protect their future.

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