NORTHFIELD, MINN. (November 14, 2019) – The Community Action Center (CAC) of Northfield, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs that meet the basic needs of individuals and families, and Laura 
Baker Services Association (LBSA), a local provider of housing, educational and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, are rallying together to address employment challenges in the community through an innovative cross-staffing pilot that provides wraparound support and services to employees of LBSA.
As this partnership began to cultivate, the two organizations discovered that many LBSA employees face similar challenges already being addressed by the CAC – in areas such as housing, transportation, childcare, problem-solving, food access, budgeting and crisis support.
At LBSA and across the nation, the growing shortage and high turnover rate of direct support positions has reached a crisis level. Low wages and minimal benefits, caused by fixed Medicaid reimbursement rates, are significant reasons for this turnover. This mandated rate is also one of the main reasons this segment of the workforce faces challenges and barriers outside of work.
As part of the partnership, the CAC will serve as the financial backbone, funding a part-time Community Advocate position assigned to support LBSA employees by providing holistic, community-embedded solutions and resources in areas where challenges are being faced. Through the work of the Community Advocate position, a cohesive, layered set of supports will empower individuals to address issues that come up outside of work in a safe environment. Accessing the Community Advocate will be voluntary and completely confidential.
“We are thankful to community partners like the Community Action Center, who understand the realities our employees face. Because of this cross-staffing initiative, our workforce will be better supported and equipped with resources to address challenges in their lives,” says LBSA Executive Director Sandi Gerdes. “The ripple effect of this is so powerful to employees, our clients and the community at large.”
Both organizations believe that the positive outcomes of this cross-staffing partnership are exponential, noting that when employees are supported, families thrive, and when families are stable, children’s academic performance improves. When employees thrive, LBSA’s mission can be carried out with a stable and consistent workforce, creating less employee turnover and better support for LBSA clients.
“Further strengthened alongside community partners like LBSA, we can take powerful leadership roles in identifying and approaching systematic issues in our community,” says CAC Executive Director Scott Wopata. “We are committed to supporting LBSA employees with resources that are specific, tailored and informed by their needs.”
Those interested in serving as a Community Advocate working to support LBSA staff are encouraged to apply. Visit communityactioncenter.org/
About the Community Action Center of Northfield
The Community Action Center of Northfield exists to promote a healthy, caring and just community for all people through resources, advocacy and volunteer effort. We help our Northfield-area neighbors meet basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter, and provide crisis support, transportation and more. For more information, visit communityactioncenter.org.
About Laura Baker Services Association
Laura Baker Services Association is a superior provider of housing, educational and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their mission is to respect the life choices and dreams of people with developmental disabilities and help them reach their goals. Understanding that the needs of each individual are unique, Laura Baker Services Association empowers families to choose from a continuum of care that will support their loved ones in leading fulfilling lives. For more information, visit laurabaker.org.
