In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the progress and future plans of the Economic Mobility Hub, which currently serves 34 families and aims to expand its capacity to assist up to 50 families by hiring an additional family coach. The Hub emphasizes a family-centered coaching approach and is actively building a network of referral partners to enhance its services.
Key partnerships have been established with organizations such as Ramsey County, the Urban Institute, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, with the latter supporting research initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities. The Hub's funding comes from various private grants and contracts with Ramsey County, but with existing grants nearing expiration, there is a pressing need for sustainable funding solutions.
The Hub's leadership expressed gratitude for the support received from Ramsey County officials and highlighted the importance of aligning their efforts with the county's goals for economic mobility and inclusion. They urged the County Board to monitor economic mobility initiatives and to focus on strategies that assist American Indian families in navigating career pathways that offer sustainable wages.
Additionally, the Hub advocates for the continuation of the American Indian Community Coordinator position, which plays a crucial role in facilitating access to county resources and fostering collaboration with communities of color. The meeting concluded with a call for ongoing support and funding to ensure the Hub's sustainability and effectiveness in improving economic stability for families in Ramsey County.