WILMINGTON, Del. – On Friday afternoon, U.S. Senator Chris Coons and two-dozen community and neighborhood leaders from around Delaware came together for the second in a series of four discussions on “Winning the Fight Against Urban Unemployment.” During Friday’s meeting, which was hosted by the Goodwill of Delaware and Delaware Country, participants brainstormed solutions on housing, crime and recidivism, education and job skills training, and social and soft skills.
“Helping our neighbors who face chronic urban joblessness requires folks from every community coming together and pushing in the same direction,” Senator Coons said. “Whether it’s inadequate work training, lack of support systems, or economic barriers to getting and holding a job, the causes of these challenges are complex and intertwined. It’s going to require people from all walks of life contributing their wisdom and insights to find the comprehensive solutions we need.”
“Today’s discussion was another positive step forward on the path to solutions. From ways to better engage employers, support those struggling with substance abuse or looking for a second chance, and provide better opportunities for our children – we do not suffer from a lack of ideas and ingenuity. I walked away this afternoon confident that we have the tools to break these tragic cycles, and I very much look forward to continuing our work.”
Friday’s 90-minute long conversation was the second in a series of conversation that are planned in the run-up to a larger summit this year. The opening discussion was held on Wednesday, February 19, also at the Goodwill of Delaware and Delaware County.
Participating in Friday’s discussion were:
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