Community leaders in the Inland Empire joined Irvine’s Board of Directors at the end of September and toured six locations that show the economic challenges in the community as well as the opportunities for inclusive economic development that creates quality jobs and centers workers.

This visit, the board’s first in-person trip to a community in more than three years, offered community leaders a chance to explain the challenges and opportunities facing workers earning low wages in Riverside and San Bernardino.

The board also met local leaders and grantee organizations from the Priority Communities, Fair Work, and Better Careers initiatives on a range of issues.

This visit was informed by the generous contributions of a Community Advisory Committee who assisted staff in the planning. The Priority Communities team is deeply grateful for the time, effort, and important insights our partners shared. We look forward to supporting the innovative work happening to make the Inland Empire a more inclusive, economically thriving place to live.

Check out these videos to hear directly from local leaders about their important work to create economies that work for all residents.

Supporting economic opportunity in the Inland Empire, California’s fastest growing region

Inclusive economic development for a more just region

Strengthening community and worker voice to support quality jobs

Rethinking workforce development to create equitable and accessible economic opportunities

Strengthening entrepreneurship to build a path to economic mobility

Masthead photo credit: Samanta Helou Hernandez.