Chicago Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS)
COMMUNITY-CENTERED EMPLOYER VISITS FOCUSED ON COLLABORATION AND SOCIAL IMPACT
DFSS designs its employer visits to highlight its deep commitment to community and citywide workforce development initiatives. By incorporating city partners into the visits, DFSS showcases how employer collaboration contributes to larger social and economic goals.
Community Impact Showcase: DFSS structures each visit to showcase how its programs contribute to the community, with an emphasis on inclusivity and economic growth. Employers gain insight into the broader social benefits of workforce development, such as reducing local unemployment rates and supporting underrepresented populations. This community-oriented approach helps employers understand the larger purpose behind their involvement.
City Partner Involvement: During visits, DFSS often invites representatives from city entities such as the Mayor’s Office, Department of Planning & Development, or World Business Chicago. These representatives discuss how DFSS’s programs align with citywide initiatives, underscoring the strategic importance of employer partnerships in achieving Chicago’s workforce goals. This collaborative element reinforces the message that employers are joining a larger, impactful mission.
Alignment with City Goals: DFSS highlights specific programs that align with the city’s workforce and economic development objectives, such as training programs focused on high-demand sectors. Employers see how their engagement can directly support Chicago’s vision for a robust, skilled workforce, making the partnership mutually beneficial.
Ongoing Collaboration Opportunities: DFSS actively encourages employers to become long-term partners in its community-based initiatives. After each visit, employers are invited to participate in ongoing programs, such as mentorship or job shadowing opportunities for trainees, further integrating them into the community-centered mission of DFSS.
