JobsFirstNYC

Raising consciousness/systems change and public policy:program description: using the lessons learned from our on-the-ground practice and robust research, we shape innovative policies that improve access to economic opportunities. Jobsfirstnyc focuses on policy change to prepare young adults for the future of work through a single-system strategy that embraces four key elements: 1. Data informed - uses and shares data to: (a) determine level and type of investment; (b) inform strategies for specific subgroups; and (c) measure system effectiveness.2. Coordinated funding - aligns public and private funding to coordinate all services and opportunities.3. Easy user access - keeps the end-user in mind by fostering a "no wrong door" approach and having a "one-stop shop" online platform and service delivery model that connects young adults to opportunities according to their interests, skills, and needs.4. Responsive program design - features longer on-ramps and off-ramps connected to social services and case management support that more accurately reflects the intensive needs of out-of-school, out-of-work young adults. By supporting young adults across a continuum, such a system should: intervene while young adults who are most at risk of becoming out of school and out of work are in high school; connect current out of school, out of work young adults to education and employment opportunities; and, advance young adults who are marginally connected to education and employment opportunities to ensure their financial security and independence.