Providing workforce development work is part of Jewish values
September is Workforce Development Month
By Leah Temkin • Career Services Director
When we think of September, we think of kids going back to school, pools closing, High Holidays approaching, leaves turning. September is also National Happy Cat Month, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and Better Breakfast Month.
More relevant to us in JFCS Career Services, it is National Workforce Development Month. While most people can relate to happy cats and better breakfasts, for many the phrase “workforce development” does not invoke immediate recognition. When I talk about my work, many times I hear, “But what is it that you actually DO?”
Workforce development includes connecting people with employment opportunities; helping businesses find qualified applicants; assisting individuals with skill development and career advancement; and as an end result, ensuring economic growth for the community.
Marc Majors, Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development, says: “The efforts of workforce development professionals are critically important in helping workers and employers adjust to a shifting labor market. … It’s a time to salute the workforce development professionals dedicated to linking people with employment, connecting jobseekers and employers with career and business growth opportunities and helping drive economic development in communities across the state.”
Sometimes I am asked why it is so important for a Jewish agency to engage in workforce development work. The answer lies in our values and traditions – the great sage Rabban Gamliel taught in Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers): “It is good to study Torah and engage in a worldly occupation (i.e. employment), for exertion in both causes evil inclination to be forgotten.”
Rambam (Maimonides) taught that the highest level of tzedakah (charity and justice) one can give to a fellow community member is providing them with gainful employment. This is why workforce development work is absolutely essential for JFCS. When we assist people with finding employment, improving their skills, or helping them retain their jobs, we fulfill our mission to ease suffering and provide support in times of need. To quote our CEO, Judy Halper, “When we all do better, we all do better!”
If you are looking for assistance with your own career development or would like to consider qualified candidates for job openings, please contact JFCS’ intake line at 952-546-0616.