October 26, 2020
To help you navigate these uncertain times, we’ve compiled timely news and resources related to small business, education and connectivity. We hope this provides both information and comfort as we continue to weather these challenges.
T.D. Jakes Foundation in Action
Today, in the United States, there are approximately 2.6 million Black-owned businesses—a number has risen by more than 30 percent in the past decade. Click here to visit the T.D. Jakes Foundation’s helpful resource guide to help those looking for ways to support Black-owned businesses.
Need additional resources around STEAM? The T.D. Jakes Foundation has compiled a list of STEAM resources for the arts, coding, and engineering and even resources specifically for kids and teachers. Check out our STEAM resources here.
Job Opportunities
With COVID-19’s effect on record high unemployment rates, many people are looking for job security. Ladders has put together a list of in-demand positions along with current openings.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
COVID-19 is forcing a record number of women out of the workplace. A recent National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) study found that, unlike past recessions, where men were often unemployed at higher rates than women, the pandemic has forced women out of the workforce at disproportionately high rates. The study also found that the pandemic will have lasting consequences for women for years to come. Read more in Forbes.
According to data from ZipRecruiter, more than 86% of job seekers cite workplace diversity as an important factor in their job searches. And while some progress has been made within the workplace, Marthin De Beer argues that companies need to take it a step further to close the wealth divide by providing financial education, financial planning and investment education to their employees. Read the story in Forbes.
Following the pandemic and the death of George Floyd, businesses of all sizes started to reevaluate their company structure and culture. U.S. Bank’s Chief Diversity Officer, Greg Cunningham, outlined steps companies should take to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in Minnesota Monthly.
With COVID-19 helping to reshape our world, it is imperative that businesses understand why business sustainability and equity initiatives need to be viewed through the lens of intersectionality. Read more from the World Economic Forum.
Education Update
On October 1, FAFSA applications opened for the 2021-2022 school year. NPR gives college applicants and their families some helpful tips on the application process on their website.
Dallas ISD leadership recently outlined steps the district is taking to address racism and improve equity within their schools. Read more about these efforts here.
On October 21, The Texas Education Agency and Gov. Greg Abbott announced the creation of the $30 million effort, the Supplementary Special Education Services program, to grant Texas public school students with severe cognitive disabilities a spending account of $1,500 for tutoring, therapy and other support services to tackle any learning disruptions due to school closures. Learn more.
Vote
Please exercise your right to vote. With the 2020 election only a week away, USA Today has created a guide on what you need to know in regards to voting and key issues.
Together, we can and will get through this.
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