We begin the new program year (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022) focused on recovery. Our region is seeing promising trends, from lower infection rates to positive economic indicators. Despite the beginnings of recovery, we are seeing widening economic disparities for women and people of color. This is a critical time for our region to work together around a shared vision of support and inclusion.

We begin the next program year in a substantially different place than from last year, even than from a few months ago. The health and economic impacts of COVID-19 have created massive disruptions to the economy and created a new reality for workers, the unemployed, and small businesses.