Recently, in its PA TIMES newsletter, the ASPA—of which KRA is an active member—posted an insightful article that resonated strongly with KRA and our President & CEO, Knowlton R. Atterbeary, as it echoes a belief central to our mission since KRA’s founding.
In our KRA Commemorative Tribute Booklet: Celebrating 40 Years 1981 – 2021, a section titled Our Beginning, states: “Mr. Atterbeary was convinced that the key to unlocking the door to sustainable economic development was effective workforce development at the local level. Thus, the overarching objective of KRA’s business strategy was to develop an enterprise whose ultimate goal was to operate community-based workforce service programs that would develop workers and strengthen communities.”
Nearly 44 years later, this vision remains the guiding force behind KRA’s work today that seeks to deliver the highest level of innovative, exceptional, and trusted community-centered WIOA and TANF programs. Partnering with Workforce Boards and Departments of Human and Social Services across the country, KRA continues to bridge the gap between workforce needs and economic growth.
The ASPA article emphasizes a foundational truth: “Economic development is commonly defined as the sustained, concerted actions taken by communities to promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area. This includes initiatives aimed at job creation, business retention, economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.”
The article concludes with a powerful call to action: “By aligning workforce development with economic goals, public administrators can help attract and retain businesses, creating an ecosystem where economic and community growth go hand in hand.” Read the entire article here.
At KRA, we don’t just believe in this connection; we actively drive it forward. Contact us today to partner with us in creating workforce solutions that not only meet immediate employment needs but establish sustainable economic progress in the communities we serve.