LV Chamber selected for national workforce training program

The Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce is one of 11 regions selected by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Foundation for economic mobility for rural workers.

As a participant in a new national program as part of the cohort for Economic Mobility for Rural Workers, the chamber will receive training and support to implement a program that helps place low-income, rural learners in good-paying jobs.

“We are just thrilled to be selected to participate and look forward to learning and collaborating with our peers,” Director of Workforce and Education Diane Harlow said in a release.

Sustainable workforce development remains a high priority for Lebanon County, which is made up of rural and urban municipality designations with more than 140,000 residents. Through advocacy, awareness, and collaboration, the chamber serves as a catalyst to support local workforce development.

The 18-month program is made possible with funding from Ascendium Education Philanthropy. All the participants will serve rural communities and explore and pilot different models that help place low-income, rural learners in good-paying jobs with career mobility.

Chambers will work together utilizing similar strategies and receive customized technical assistance. Participants will also develop a strategy to continue their work following the conclusion of the program.

As chambers are positioned to build and support cross-sector coalitions that create sustained business engagement in workforce development and education, they can support connections between postsecondary education providers, learners, and employers. The aim is to ensure rural learners have pathways to employment without having to relocate.

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Foundation President and CEO Sheree Anne Kelly said economic mobility is key to unlocking economic prosperity.

“Chambers of commerce are catalytic leaders ideally suited to address pressing talent challenges and ensure thriving and equitable rural economies,” Kelly said.