Community Nexus is excited to share newly updated videos from last year’s Workforce Development Conference, highlighting the impactful breakout sessions from the Employment Track. These sessions brought together leaders, advocates, and professionals who are actively working to create more inclusive, sustainable workforce systems. Each panel offers thoughtful discussion, practical strategies, and real-world examples that center on expanding employment opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
Panel 1: Empowering Veterans & Entrepreneurs of All Abilities at Mid-Hudson Works
Laura Kiesbye, Executive Director, Mid Hudson Works; Kirk Maraglia, Board Member, Mid Hudson Works; and Ronald Ferris, Business Development, Mid Hudson Works
Is Your Business Model Built for Inclusive Growth?
Mid-Hudson Works is redefining what it means to create opportunity in today’s evolving economy. In this session, the panel explores how inclusive coworking models can empower veterans, individuals with disabilities, and low-income entrepreneurs through skill development and flexible workspaces. The discussion also highlights how workforce reintegration can be strengthened through hands-on training and real-world business support, while bridging the gap between social mission and sustainable enterprise. Through real examples, viewers are introduced to strategies that use intentional space and design to support overlooked entrepreneurs, encourage cross-sector collaboration, and foster business models that prioritize both impact and profitability. This session offers a practical look at how Mid-Hudson Works is building a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem and how similar approaches can drive innovation and resilience in other communities.
Panel 2: Inclusive Employment Models Driving Economic Growth: Brick It Again & The Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company
Randi L. Rios-Castro; Sara Trowers, Chief Program Officer, Jawonio; and Michele Curtis, Director of Social Enterprises & New Business Development, Jawonio
Can Inclusive Social Enterprise Reshape Your Workforce Strategy?
Jawonio is redefining workforce development by building inclusive, mission-driven businesses that create meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities for people of all abilities. In this session, panelists share how organizations can develop social enterprises that not only generate revenue but also advance inclusion in meaningful ways. The conversation explores how to create employment pathways for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underserved groups while aligning workforce strategies with broader social responsibility and community engagement goals. Through examples like Brick It Again, a LEGO® resale store offering hands-on vocational training, and the Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company, a multimillion-dollar enterprise rooted in inclusive hiring, the panel demonstrates how impact and business success can go hand in hand. Viewers will come away with a clearer understanding of how to launch and sustain mission-aligned businesses that meet real workforce needs while expanding opportunity.
Panel 3: Business roundtable: Integrating Housing, employment, and support services for Inclusive Growth
Joseph Horesky, Program Manager, Mental Health America; Adam Roche, Director, Office of Veterans Affairs; Caroline Angiello, LCSW-R, President Emeritus, Community Nexus; and Nicholas Clay, Integrative Coach, Being One World
Breaking Down Silos, Building Stronger Communities
Stable housing, meaningful employment, and accessible mental health support are all essential components of a thriving community, yet they are too often addressed in isolation. This collaborative roundtable brings together cross-sector leaders to explore how integrating these services can create more effective and inclusive systems of support. The discussion emphasizes how investing in mental health resources contributes to a more engaged, resilient, and productive workforce, while also improving workplace culture, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Panelists examine the importance of collaboration across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, sharing strategies to align vocational training, job placement, and housing stability into a cohesive ecosystem. By breaking down silos and coordinating efforts, communities can strengthen economic mobility, improve quality of life, and build long-term resilience. This session provides valuable insight into policy, funding, and partnership approaches that address real community needs.
Watch, Learn, and Take Action
Together, these Employment Track sessions offer a comprehensive look at how inclusive workforce development can be achieved through innovation, collaboration, and intentional design. Whether you are an employer, nonprofit leader, or community advocate, these conversations provide actionable insights to help shape more equitable and effective workforce systems. Explore the updated videos and help build a more inclusive future.
