In an effort to foster collaboration and address economic challenges in the DFW metroplex, Buckner hosted a roundtable discussion at the Buckner Family Hope Center® at Bachman Lake. The roundtable brought together U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey, representative of District 33, and U.S. Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne, representative of District 24, along with Buckner International leadership and North Texas nonprofits, organizations, and employers.

“Buckner International works in communities to help families with the resources and support they need to succeed,” said Randy Daniels, vice president of business development and government relations. “It is important that we collaborate with the government, nonprofits, for-profits, and stakeholders so that families have a bright future, including access to good paying jobs.”

Roundtable participants included Dallas Community College, DFW Airport, TexCap Insurance, Watermark Community Development Corporation, Behind Every Door, Impact Institute, and a representative from the office of Governor Greg Abbott.

The discussion included insights into the representatives’ efforts in Congress to provide economic opportunities and empower vulnerable households. Participants shared challenges and successes they face around employment, as well as ways the federal government can collaborate with stakeholders to serve the community.

“Having strong policies on economics and strong relationships with businesses is helpful,” said Rep. Van Duyne. “I don’t care what side of the aisle you’re on, we should all be focused on providing as many opportunities as possible that allow people to care for their families.”

A question from Fiona Hall with Behind Every Door prompted a discussion on the effects of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce. Rep. Van Duyne acknowledged the benefits of AI, specifically for small businesses who might have tight resources, while Rep. Veasey emphasized the need for continuous adaptation and education to equip job seekers with the necessary skills to thrive in an evolving job market.

Michael Sullivan with Impact Institute passionately encouraged the representatives and attendees to continue looking for solutions: "Money is not the issue, solutions are. We do not have enough solutions."

Other highlights included a discussion on the lack of transportation as a barrier for job seekers in lower income communities, the gap between organizations providing job training and clients finding employment, and the need for nonprofits in the area to collaborate with government officials to better assess the need of the communities.

“Helping vulnerable communities is going to require more thought and creativity,” said Rep. Veasey. “We have to find a way for the nonprofit community to speak in a unified voice about what they need from us.”