Community Connections for Children (CCC), in partnership with Pennsylvania CareerLink, recently hosted two successful Lunch & Learn sessions designed to connect early childhood education (ECE) providers with valuable business services and workforce funding opportunities. The sessions welcomed more than 35 participants across both formats, reflecting strong engagement from the local early learning community.
The in-person Lunch & Learn, held on January 22, 2026, took place at CCC’s York office and offered opportunities for discussion, networking, and hands-on learning. A virtual session on January 29, 2026 expanded access for providers unable to attend in person while maintaining the same informative content and interactive format.
During the sessions, Pennsylvania CareerLink’s Business Services team shared an overview of workforce solutions available to early childhood employers. Participants learned how CareerLink can support recruitment and hiring, including identifying and referring qualified candidates, assisting with the onboarding process, and helping programs navigate required employment documentation and clearances. They shared an overview of workforce solutions available to employers, including On-the-Job Training (OJT) reimbursement and Paid Work Experience programs. These services are designed to reduce hiring costs, support training and supervision, and strengthen employee retention which are critical needs within the early childhood education sector. Presenters also reviewed Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services, eligibility requirements, and available supportive services that can help educators and employers access training, wage support, and long-term career pathways.
“At ECHO, we believe the workforce behind the workforce matters,” said Kim Hengst, Workforce Development Coordinator. “CareerLink helps turn that belief into action by providing practical tools and funding that support early childhood programs at every stage—from onboarding new staff to building long-term career pathways. These partnerships are how we move from intention to impact.”
Early childhood education providers interested in learning more about CareerLink business services or exploring eligibility for workforce funding are encouraged to connect directly with CareerLink representatives:
- Jacob Conklin, PA CareerLink, Deputy Director Business Services
(C) 815.994.0312
(E) Jacob.Conklin@equusworks.com - Shana Scott, Pennsylvania CareerLink Deputy Project Director – Adult/Dislocated Worker & Youth
841 Vogelsong Rd, York, PA 17404
(C) 717.767.7600 ext. 618
(E) shana.scott@equusworks.com
The Lunch & Learn series reflects CCC’s ongoing commitment through ECHO (Every Child Has Opportunities) to align early childhood education with workforce development systems. By bringing CareerLink services directly to ECE providers, the sessions helped clarify funding opportunities and strengthened connections between programs and workforce partners.
Additional workforce-focused learning opportunities are planned as CCC and its partners continue working collaboratively to support early childhood educators, strengthen programs, and expand access to sustainable career pathways across the region.
