the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County hosted the Economic Security for All & Community Reinvestment Program Provider Summit. It was a morning that brought together the Washington State Department of Commerce, Employment Security Department, and dozens of community partners from across King County to do something we don't do often enough: pause and celebrate.

This Summit gave space to those who make community work happen — the intermediaries, training providers, small business owners, and community organizations — to share their lived experiences and those of the people they serve.

The Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County is celebrating an important win for communities across Washington: the passage and signing of House Bill 2523, which strengthens the Community Reinvestment Program and reinforces the state’s commitment to expanding economic opportunity. This milestone reflects years of advocacy, partnership, and community leadership. Alongside the Washington Workforce Association, local workforce boards, community-based organizations, and legislative champions, the WDC has worked to help ensure that Economic Security for All (EcSA) and the Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) remain strong tools for reducing poverty, advancing equity, and connecting people to stable careers.

In early 2025, widespread federal layoffs across Washington triggered a coordinated statewide response. Led by the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, partners quickly mobilized to connect displaced federal workers to unemployment support, job training, and reemployment services.