Watch all the action from the Expanding Opportunity: Investing in Employment Social Enterprise event, held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on April 7, 2022.

This gathering focused on the significant economic benefits of expanding job and career opportunities for people who often encounter hurdles to employment, including people who have experienced incarceration, homelessness, foster care, and other challenges. Panelists discussed how capital has fueled the growth of New York-area employment social enterprises, which are organizations that employ people who have historically been shut out of the workforce, while also producing goods and services that positively impact their communities.

The event was held as part of the New York Fed’s focus on three areas affecting community development: household financial well-being, climate-related risks to low- and moderate-income communities, and the social determinants of health.

REDF was proud to serve as co-host for this event, and we’re grateful for the collaboration from all participating organizations and businesses, including Sierra Health Foundation, OneTen, Recognize, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, and North Lawndale Employment Network (Sweet Beginnings). And of course, a very special thank-you to the New York Fed!

Check out the videos below, and explore insights on this event from REDF President Maria Kim.

Opening remarks:

Chet Hewitt:

Maurice Jones & Charles Phillips:

Panel Discussion on Connecting Capital and Employment Social Enterprises:

LISC & Sweet Beginnings:

Watch the full event: