Inspiring Futures: Benton Harbor
We have a big idea that channeling the right support, with the right partners, at the right times will lead to long-term career success for Benton Harbor-area youth.
With the best and brightest regional and national experts, we’re testing this idea through a 12-15 month feasibility study that will be the foundation of a plan that delivers on this big idea.
We’re piloting this plan in our headquarter community with an eye towards Inspiring Futures across the state, one young life at a time.
Asset Map Findings, Building on the Best
Asset Map Now Available
This past spring nearly 30 subject matter experts began meeting regularly around a feasibility initiative that came to be known as Inspiring Futures. It is our belief that the right partners, providing the right support, delivered at the right times, would lead to long term career success for Benton Harbor youth. To achieve this there first needed to be a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape. Our partners at Jobs for the Future spoke with over 70 individuals representing over 30 area organizations. These individuals represented employers, educators, and nonprofits across our region. We are proud to share that the completed asset map for Benton Harbor is available, here.
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Armed with the asset map, Inspiring Futures: Benton Harbor enters a new phase. Beginning in September we will be setting priorities and defining goals. In October and November we will develop action steps aligned to each of the prioritized areas and map timelines, roles, and responsibilities for implementation. Our team remains committed and on track to implement Inspiring Futures: Benton Harbor in the 2022 - 2023 school year. In the meantime we will continue to provide updates on our progress.
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Panel Discussion Recording
Thank you to everyone who joined for the Inspiring Futures event, Asset Map Findings, Building on the Best. If you were unable to join, the recording is available above.
Leaders & Experts
Meet the local leaders and subject matter experts from education, community-based organizations, employers, training providers, and community residents lending their voice and expertise to the work.
Community Support
Our Pillars of Work
Continuum of Services
A community that provides a self-sustaining continuum of services that empower youth to realize their potential, pursue successful career pathways, and achieve professional goals.
Engaging Employers
A network of employers delivering a consistent and equitable framework that engages, develops and mentors local youth with the necessary skills for life-sustaining career success.
Breaking Down Barriers
A path for every student to connect with opportunities, overcome barriers, and engage with local mentors to reach their potential.
This effort is the first one that I have seen in 25 years which brings the best and smartest people in the community together to deliver the right accessible support, at the right time for the long-term success of our young people. This is something that I firmly believe in and believe will have a strong impact on our community.”
- Michael Todman, former Vice Chairman of Whirlpool Corporation & President of the Whirlpool Foundation
“Feasibility Study” Overview
(January 2021 - March 2022)
