Advancing Equity Through Policy, Partnerships, and Workforce Access

In September 2024, the Gatsby Showcase Foundation participated in the 53rd Annual Legislative Conference hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) in Washington, DC. The conference convened policymakers, government agencies, corporations, and community leaders committed to advancing equity, access, and opportunity across sectors.

This engagement reflects the Foundation’s commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through policy engagement, cross-sector partnerships, and workforce development—particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Building Pathways to Opportunity Through Government Engagement

During the conference, the Gatsby Showcase Foundation engaged with representatives from key federal institutions, including the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Secret Service, and the U.S. House of Representatives’ Office of Talent and Development. These conversations focused on expanding access to government careers and leadership pathways for historically marginalized and underrepresented communities.

By building relationships with federal agencies, the Foundation seeks to address systemic barriers to entry in public service and help create inclusive pipelines into government and policy-related careers—supporting long-term economic mobility and civic participation.

Strengthening Workforce Development and Economic Empowerment

Aligned with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), the Foundation is committed to translating advocacy into action. Building on relationships established at the CBCF conference, the Gatsby Showcase Foundation plans to launch workshops, mentorship initiatives, and resource programs beginning in 2025 to support the recruitment and professional development of individuals from marginalized backgrounds into both public service and private-sector roles.

These initiatives are designed to equip participants with the skills, networks, and guidance needed to pursue meaningful careers and contribute to inclusive economic growth—both locally in the DMV region and nationally.

Corporate Partnership Spotlight: Johnson & Johnson

In conjunction with the CBCF Annual Legislative Conference, the Gatsby Showcase Foundation met with representatives from Johnson & Johnson, a global leader in healthcare innovation, to explore strategic partnerships aligned with shared goals of equity, access, and workforce development.

Discussions centered on advancing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education) through initiatives that expand healthcare access, strengthen workforce training, and support educational pathways for aspiring healthcare professionals from underserved communities.

Potential areas of collaboration included:

• Healthcare education and training programs

• Workforce development and career pathways

• Community-based health access initiatives

Through partnerships with corporations committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Foundation seeks to bridge gaps in healthcare access while preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

A Platform for Lasting, Systems-Level Impact

The Gatsby Showcase Foundation views policy engagement and corporate partnerships as essential tools for achieving sustainable, systems-level change. By convening government agencies, private-sector leaders, and community organizations, the Foundation advances solutions that are scalable, collaborative, and aligned with global development priorities.

As the Foundation continues to deepen relationships forged through forums such as the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference, it remains committed to building pathways to opportunity, strengthening communities, and ensuring that no one is left behind.

UN SDG Alignment

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: Advancing health equity by engaging healthcare leaders and corporate partners to expand access to healthcare education, services, and workforce pathways.

• SDG 4 – Quality Education: Supporting education and training pathways that prepare individuals from underrepresented communities for careers in public service and the healthcare sector.

• SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promoting inclusive workforce development by expanding access to government and corporate career opportunities for marginalized populations.

• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Addressing structural barriers to representation and opportunity through policy engagement and advocacy at the local and national levels.

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening cross-sector collaboration among government agencies, corporations, and community organizations to drive coordinated, scalable impact.

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