Chicago Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS)

COMMUNITY-FOCUSED WORKPLACE VISITS THAT EMPHASIZE SOCIAL IMPACT

DFSS designs its workplace visits to emphasize the social and community impact of local employment opportunities. By focusing on companies that prioritize local hiring and community engagement, DFSS helps job seekers envision meaningful roles that contribute to their community.

• Highlighting Community-Centered Employers: DFSS selects employers who are actively invested in local workforce development and community inclusion. During visits, these companies share their stories about supporting the community, creating a connection between job seekers and the larger mission of contributing to social and economic development. This focus on community engagement helps job seekers feel inspired and empowered to make a positive impact through their careers.

• Impact-Focused Tours and Presentations: DFSS workplace visits include presentations from the company on how each department contributes to the community, emphasizing how job seekers can play a role in making a difference. These presentations focus on socially responsible business practices, such as sustainability, diversity, and local sourcing, which resonate with job seekers who are looking for purpose-driven employment.

• Meet-and-Greet with Community-Oriented Teams: Job seekers have the opportunity to meet with teams or departments that work closely on community projects. For example, they may engage with staff involved in corporate social responsibility or community outreach programs. These conversations give job seekers a tangible sense of how their potential role could align with their personal values, fostering a deeper connection to the company.

• Long-Term Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: To sustain engagement, DFSS often arranges for participating job seekers to join mentorship or networking programs offered by the employer. These programs provide job seekers with ongoing support and guidance, connecting them with professionals who can help them navigate career paths that prioritize community impact.