FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Connected Lane County Receives National Youth Program of the Year Award
Eugene, OR – October 2024 – Connected Lane County has been recognized by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) with the prestigious 2024 Youth Program Workforce Award. This award honors the organization’s outstanding contributions to youth workforce development and its commitment to empowering young people in Lane County, Oregon.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Heidi Larwick, Connected Lane County has developed innovative programs such as Elevate, Navigate, and Spark. These initiatives help young people, particularly those from underserved communities, connect with educators and industry partners to gain the skills and experiences necessary for post-secondary success and high-wage, high-demand careers. Connected Lane County has made a significant impact in the region, serving more than 3,200 youth in the 2023-2024 program year. Through its Spark programs, the organization provides hands-on learning experiences in fields like STEM, healthcare, and skilled trades. The creation of two dedicated spaces, Spark on 7th and Spark at Booth Kelly, offers safe environments for youth to explore their interests and develop critical skills.
Heidi Larwick, Executive Director of Connected Lane County, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team. Our staff works tirelessly to provide opportunities for the youth of Lane County, and I’m incredibly proud of their impact. This recognition belongs to every person who has contributed to our mission and believed in the power of creating change through access and opportunities for young people to thrive.” Ashley Espinoza, Executive Director of Lane Workforce Partnership, said: “I remember when Connected Lane County was a team of just six. Watching the organization grow and witnessing success story after success story has been incredible. These stories belong to the students who engage and trust the systems that have often let them down. They also belong to the teachers and caring adults who meet these students where they are with enthusiasm and grace, and to the amazing team at Connected Lane, all dedicated to the mission and their care for the community. As a board member and partner, I’m grateful that our national association is recognizing this work.”
The NAWDP Youth Program Workforce Award highlights Connected Lane County’s commitment to overcoming barriers faced by youth, particularly those who are unhoused, underserved, or marginalized. The organization’s strategic partnerships with local businesses and comprehensive support services have helped Lane County youth gain valuable workforce experiences and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
For more information about Connected Lane County’s programs, visit www.connectedlanecounty.org.
About Connected Lane County: Connected Lane County equips youth with the tools to help them gain confidence in their abilities and see value in their decisions by breaking down barriers, building bridges, and creating strategic partnerships to connect youth with education and employment pathways to transform their future potential. Connected Lane County’s work includes key programs—Elevate, Navigate, Spark, and Excelerators—and services over 3,000 youth annually. To learn more, visit connectedlane.org.
About Lane Workforce Partnership: Lane Workforce Partnership is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization and one of Oregon’s nine local workforce development boards. Lane Workforce Partnership, the designated local Workforce Development Board for Lane County, Oregon, invests in programs that empower job seekers to meet the current and future workforce needs of employers in Lane County. Programs and services are delivered through a network of local partners including employers, labor groups, government, community colleges, high schools, community-based organizations, and economic development.
About NAWDP: NAWDP provides the education, resources, and certification credibility to individuals seeking to thrive in the workforce development industry as thought leaders and innovators. As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, NAWDP builds relationships and connections with other industry-leading organizations to challenge and collaborate for the advancement of the industry. For more information on NAWDP’s programs, CWDP Certification, and membership go to www.nawdp.org.
Media Contact: Jesse Quinn, jesse@laneworkforce.org, 541-653-5137