Helpful Resources.
Next Gen Sector Partnerships bring businesses from the same industry together with workforce, education, economic development, and community partners to address shared competitiveness and talent needs. The model is industry-driven, community-supported, and designed to sustain long-term regional alignment around workforce and economic growth strategies. Source: Next Gen
This Brookings Metro report proposes a measurable, wage-based definition of “quality jobs” to help regional leaders better align economic development and workforce strategies. It offers data tools and frameworks that allow regions to identify where quality jobs exist, who has access to them, and how systems can coordinate to expand opportunity. Source: Brookings
This Brookings Metro report defines five civic capabilities that regions need to intentionally link economic growth strategies with inclusion efforts. Drawing on case studies from across the country, it offers a framework for business leadership organizations, chambers, and regional intermediaries working to advance racially inclusive prosperity. Source: Brookings
The Henrico Affordable Housing Trust Fund shows how aligned effort can turn shared vision into measurable impact. Backed by a $60 million commitment and cross-sector collaboration, the initiative is expanding access to homeownership while strengthening long-term economic mobility in the region.
From VPM News, this article provides the historical contexts for redlining and restrictive covenants that were established in cities across the country in the 20th century to discriminate against minorities, as well as their continued impacts today. Source: VPM News
This VPM News Focal Point video explores how historic policies such as redlining have contributed to a significant wealth and homeownership gap for Black Americans today, but also highlights an increase in homeownership among Black millennials. Source: VPM News
To most Americans, public housing and urban poverty are “issues” that remain out of sight and out of mind. This VPM documentary follows five people who live in public housing communities, where they tell their own stories of surviving and thriving. Source: VPM News
An interview with Jovan Burton, Executive Director of the Partnership for Housing Affordability. Discussion points include the benefits of more affordable housing units being available and how individuals can support local affordable housing efforts. Source: VPM News
An interview on housing discrimination—past and present—with two experts from HOME of Virginia, a non-profit organization for equal housing opportunities. They discuss methods for identifying and combating discrimination when it takes place. Source: VPM News
An interview with Steven Nesmith, CEO of the Richmond Redevelopment & Housing Authority, on the future of public housing in the city. Topics include engaging with residents to inform plans, deconcentrating poverty and public-private partnerships. Source: VPM News
Learning from others.
RVA Rising has been gathering information from regions throughout the country who are working to improve quality of life in their own communities, just like we are. Take Charlotte, NC, for example. They have a similar program that’s based on regional growth, education, and opportunities for local youth. Make no mistake – our plan of action is specific to our own needs, values and culture in the RVA region. But it’s helpful to get support from other places who can help us push our ideas and accelerate our progress here at home.
