BUILDING PATHWAYS TO PROSPERITY: A COUNTYWIDE STRATEGY FOR MEANINGFUL WORK & WEALTH IN VANCE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

<p class="p1">This proposal presents a coordinated, systems-level strategy to strengthen the Vital Condition of Meaningful Work and Wealth in Vance County. Responding to the Board of County Commissioners&rsquo; request to address upstream social and economic drivers of community health, the Meaningful Work Alliance conducted a comprehensive analysis of workforce barriers, partner capacities, and resident experiences. Findings reveal interconnected challenges, including limited broadband access, childcare shortages, transportation gaps, low educational attainment, and misaligned training pathways that restrict access to living-wage employment. The proposal recommends establishing a Workforce Equity Steering Committee, launching a countywide DataBridge dashboard, expanding digital inclusion efforts, and creating a centralized Workforce Equity Hub to align services and supports. These targeted, feasible actions will increase training completion, improve workforce readiness, strengthen employer partnerships, and enhance economic mobility. By prioritizing this vital condition, Vance County can build a more resilient, prosperous, and equitable future for all residents.