Addressing Workforce Challenges & Employee Stability in NNY

At United Way of Northern New York, we know that a strong workforce is the foundation of a thriving community. When employees are supported, stable, and empowered, businesses succeed and our entire region benefits. That’s why we are proud to invite local employers, community leaders, and workforce partners to join us next week for an engaging and informative Workplace Forum designed to address today’s most pressing workforce challenges.

Hosted in collaboration with the Jefferson-Lewis Workforce Development Board and United Way of Northern New York, the forum will take place on Thursday, March 26 from 8:30 to 10 AM at the Jeff-Lewis BOCES Administration and Conference Center (Room C), located at 20104 Arsenal Street in Watertown. Together, we will explore current workforce trends and share practical strategies to strengthen employee stability and retention.

Cheryl Mayforth, Executive Director of the Jefferson-Lewis Workforce Development Board, will provide a comprehensive overview of the local and regional workforce landscape. Her presentation will highlight:

• The impact of changing population demographics on staffing
• Local unemployment data
• The influence of state and federal policies on regional employment

These insights will help employers better understand the challenges they face and identify opportunities to adapt and grow in an evolving environment.

Our own Dawn Cole, UWNNY President & CEO, will offer a powerful look into the realities facing many working individuals and families in our community; specifically those classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). ALICE households are working hard, often in essential roles, yet still struggle to make ends meet. This financial instability can directly impact workforce participation, attendance, productivity, and retention, which are key concerns for employers across all sectors.

Dawn will also share how United Way is addressing these challenges through Getting Ahead in the Workplace, a Bridges-informed workshop designed to:

• Build financial capability and resilience
• Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Empower employees to create personal and professional stability

This innovative program doesn’t just benefit participants, it delivers meaningful value to employers by fostering a more engaged, reliable, and stable workforce. We were incredibly proud to celebrate our inaugural class of participants who graduated in December 2025. Their dedication, growth, and success have been inspiring, and we are excited to welcome a new cohort this year.

This forum is an opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with others who are equally invested in the future of our workforce. Whether you’re an employer seeking solutions, a community leader looking to better understand regional challenges, or a partner working to support economic stability, this event will provide valuable insights and practical tools you can take back to your organization.

United, we can build stronger workplaces, support our workforce, and create a more resilient North Country.

The Workplace Forum is free of charge and open to all interested employers and community partners with no registration required. For additional information about this event, please contact agarno@jeffersoncountyny.gov