Blog

Every month, America Forward highlights examples of the vital work being done by our Coalition members to support students, families, educators, workers, elected leaders, advocates, and communities across the country. If your organization has resources, an announcement, or a story you would like to see included, please send it to america_forward@newprofit.org.

The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program

The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) provides job training and re-entry services to firefighters who have been or are involved with the criminal justice system – particularly those in state correctional conservation fire camps – and support connection to employment to help combat the increasing threat of California’s wildfire crisis. Earlier this month, FFRP Co-Founder and CEO, Brandon Smith, was featured on the Trauma Informed LA podcast to discuss his career path and how his experience after his release inspired him to create opportunities and provide leadership for others.

Braven

Braven recently announced their 2023 Jobs Report, reflecting the success of their programming and students! Braven works to empower underrepresented students by providing training, experience, and networks that lead to success and career pathways. This report highlights the state of the current American workforce, as well as the impact of Braven’s work on the opportunity, economic mobility, and academic success of students. To learn more about the job market as it stands today, as well as the opportunity attainment and career building of Braven students, read their 2023 Jobs Report today!

Reading Partners

Reading Partners recently released their new and improved resource page, with new features and resources for anyone supporting young readers – including tools for volunteers (both online and in person) families, and caregivers. As a national nonprofit that provides one-on-one tutoring and family supportive services to increase literacy, Reading Partners is uniquely equipped to share these critically important resources. Their new resource landing page includes social-emotional learning lessons, equity trainings, book lists, and more that help to bring to life their vision of full reading skills accessibility to children across the United States. 

PowerMyLearning

PowerMyLearning has launched their new blog series, Powerful Practice, with a Q&A with coach Brandon Schuler, who shares with educators about his work and success as a Professional Learning Specialist! PowerMyLearning works with educators and families across the country to advance equity in education by building strong relationships, supportive coaching, leadership workshops, and more. Their blog also features resources for educators, parents, and school leaders that highlight successful strategies, stories, partners, and more!

Service Year Alliance 

In March, Service Year Alliance hosted a webinar, Emerging Workforce Needs, Resources, & Programing in the Energy Efficiency Sector, with the Corps Network and National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Energy efficiency is just one of many sectors in which Service Year Alliance helps young people find full time, paid service positions, encouraging civilian national service for all Americans! The webinar highlighted the energy efficiency job market and SYA’s work on energy efficiency program models within national service, as well as provided resources for energy efficiency training, education, and career development and funding opportunities.