About
The what, who, and why behind Connect Battle Creek.
What is Connect Battle Creek?
Connect Battle Creek is a centralized workforce hub for the Battle Creek community. Job seekers can find the resources that they need to get or keep a good job. Employers can find ways to address workforce challenges and grow their business so that their workers can have a positive work experience. Community organizations can list their services so that people who need them can find them.
Information, resources, and assistance designed to connect job seekers and businesses to the community organizations that serve Battle Creek — it’s what Connect Battle Creek is all about.
What is workforce development?
Workforce development encompasses a variety of strategies and solutions for creating and sustaining a viable workforce. By placing a focus on preparing individuals to be successful in their employment, positive outcomes will not only support and enhance the lives of the individuals directly affected but strengthen the overall economic prosperity of their communities. Oftentimes, workforce development strategies involve improving education and community resources while also ensuring job opportunities exist.
How was Connect Battle Creek developed?
Step 1: Figure out the problem.
While assessing the workforce development initiatives in the Battle Creek area, the following areas of concern were identified.
Concern 1: Trouble Overcoming Barriers to Success
It has been found that many employers are competing for talent in the Battle Creek area, while individuals and job seekers are struggling to find the best resources that help them overcome barriers to successful employment.
Concern 2: Lack of Awareness of Available Services
There also may be a lack of knowledge on the part of both the local community and employers about what services are available to address barriers and which organizations are able to offer these services.
Concern 3: Businesses Development Needs Improvement
Similarly, businesses in the area may need assistance to develop employment opportunities and business success plans to help their business grow and thrive and to provide opportunities to Battle Creek job seekers.
Step 2: Bring together the stakeholders.
To address these concerns, the workforce development system in Battle Creek has come together to create an interconnected network of resources and knowledge to make an impact on job seekers, employers, and community organizations, as well as the Battle Creek community as a whole.
Step 3: Develop a solution - Connect Battle Creek!
Job Seekers
Assist job seekers with finding the tools and resources needed to remove barriers, find suitable employment, and be successful in a job.
Businesses
Help employers easily connect with job seekers through building resources to address barriers that job seekers encounter while also helping employers with training and business development.
Community Organizations
Shine a light on the variety of incredible community organizations and services available in Battle Creek and assist in creating meaningful connections between those organizations and local individuals and businesses who could benefit from the available services.
Check out other organizations that are a part of Connect Battle Creek!
How is this project funded?
This project is supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to ensure the Battle Creek community has a centralized place to share workforce development tools and resources.
