Workforce Development

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence by Judith Franco

Vacaville’s Summer at City Hall builds generational bridges

Summer at City Hall equips Vacaville youth with job readiness skills and a deeper understanding of local government. But city officials say the four-week program is more than just preparing students for jobs. It’s also about building community and giving them confidence.

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence By Brian Mohan

Hire MoVal shortens commutes, boosts jobs and income levels

Spending several hours a week on the road to get to and from work can negatively affect people’s finances and health — and a city’s economy. As workers leave each day for jobs in other communities, potential local businesses lose valuable talent, hindering growth and innovation.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government By Christy Jewell and Rafael Aguilera

What is keeping public sector hiring pools low?

Unclear career pathways, inflexible scheduling, and complicated hiring processes can exacerbate workforce challenges. Many cities are turning to strategies used by private sector employers, like skills-based hiring and registered apprenticeships, to meet their workforce needs.

Article Local Works By Christine Jones

San Diego is driving change through an arts workforce program

The city of San Diego is leading Far South/Border North, a regional initiative for artists and cultural practitioners. The program provided grant funding to 78 recipients for outreach and awareness campaigns focused on everything from public health to civic engagement.

Article Special to Cal Cities By Vanessa Luna

Opinion: Why cities should consider taking on an ACC AmeriCorps Member like me

“I couldn’t find anything that inspired me here in California, where I was rooted and wanted to stay,” writes Vanessa Luna, a former American Connection Corps AmeriCorps Member with the city of Santa Paula. “That all changed when ACC gave me an opportunity to serve right here in the town where I grew up.”