NJYSA Expands Economic Mobility Efforts Through Future Ready New Jersey and Community College Partnership - December 2025 Newsletter

The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance is proud to serve as member of the Future Ready New Jersey Coalition, a cross-sector effort committed to expanding economic mobility and helping more New Jersey residents earn post-secondary credentials that lead to family sustaining wages.

As part of this work, the Alliance is partnering with the New Jersey Council of County Colleges to create flexible, affordable community college pathways for YMCA employees and community members. This initiative supports YMCA staff in earning micro credentials, certificates, and associate degrees, while also expanding access to health and wellness opportunities and work-based learning experiences.

Through this partnership, the goals are to

• Support YMCA employees in advancing their careers through stackable credentials and degree pathways
• Strengthen retention, economic mobility, and long-term career growth for YMCA staff
• Build clear, accessible educational pathways for employees and community members
• Align YMCA workforce needs with community college programs designed to prepare learners for evolving employer demands

This effort is led in collaboration with the New Jersey Council of County Colleges. Together, the Alliance and the Council are helping to build a stronger, more equitable future for New Jersey’s workforce.