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Key Issues

Employment

Employment is at the center of poverty reduction, and yet there are complex reasons people remain unemployed or out of the labor force entirely. Employment solutions need to consider myriad barriers to employment, including lack of educational attainment or specialized skills, a history of involvement with the criminal justice system, physical and cognitive disabilities, child care needs, and lack of transportation to work, for example. 

Below is an overview of the numerous research projects supported by Poverty Solutions that aim to promote a better understanding of the types of employment solutions that could make a difference. Poverty Solutions also coordinates a SummerWorks youth employment program in partnership with the Washtenaw County Office for Community and Economic Development and Michigan Works! Southeast, and we partner with the City of Detroit to support a youth workforce development policy fellowship.

Employment Scholars

Publications

News Releases

Research Projects

Luke Shaefer profile photo

Michigan Advance | Dec. 11, 2024

Supreme Court order complicates conversation as paid family leave bills move to Senate floor

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Michigan Advance | Nov. 13, 2024

Reports break down the benefits of paid family and medical leave programs

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Map of MI by region

The Alpena News | Nov. 6, 2024

Op-ed: Prioritize Michiganders in lame duck

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