Innovative Leadership Shines at the 2024 SOFI Economic Mobility Summit

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - Dec. 23, 2024 - PRLog -- On Monday, December 9, 2024, the Securing Our Future Initiative (SOFI) hosted its second Securing Our Future Economic Mobility Summit at the Palm Beach Gardens Marriott.

The event convened community leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to tackle the pressing issue of economic barriers faced by low-income families in Palm Beach County.

The Securing Our Future Initiative operates through partnerships with Community Partners of South Florida, Community Action Program, Pathways to Prosperity and others. Together, these organizations are committed to driving economic mobility for families with children ages 0-18 who are living below 200% of the federal poverty level, with a particular focus on those below 100% of the FPL and able to work.

The initiative takes a comprehensive approach, recognizing the multifaceted challenges families face in achieving economic security. From addressing barriers like childcare and health services to creating access to education and job opportunities, SOFI's mission is to integrate systems of support for sustainable progress.

Attendees participated in eight dynamic breakout sessions addressing critical topics, including re-entry challenges, food security, health equity, childcare, transportation, and affordable housing.

In addition to being sponsored by key SOFI partner, Community Partners of South Florida, the Securing Our Future Economic Mobility Summit was also sponsored by Palm Beach Venture Philanthropy, the Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County, the Great Charity Challenge and Florida Power & Light.

During the event, CPSFL CEO Kelly Powell joined an impactful Employment Pathways Panel alongside Julia Dattolo, President & CEO of Career Source, Kemberly Bush, CEO of Pathways to Prosperity (a SOFI program provider) and Tiffney Marley, Senior Vice President, Practice Transformation at the National Community Action Partnership.

"Addressing the challenges in employment and upward mobility requires a collaborative approach that brings nonprofits and industry leaders to the same table," said Powell. "Nonprofits must actively engage employers to create robust pipelines for talent and provide clear pathways to success for individuals seeking opportunities. At the same time, it's equally important to build trust with those we serve—showing them that investing their effort will lead to meaningful and sustainable progress."

While the summit underscored the significant work that remains, it also showcased the power of community collaboration. By combining the expertise and resources of diverse stakeholders, SOFI is building a foundation for transformative change.

For more information about the Securing Our Future Initiative and its work, visit www.securingourfuturepbc.org.