All Eyes on Austin
Together, we can drive meaningful change through advocacy during the 90th Texas legislative session. As we prepare for session and the advocacy efforts ahead, we invite you to join us for one, two or all three webinars in this special three-part policy briefing series. Each session will feature expert panelists exploring the most pressing policy issues facing North Texas across education, income and health.
Presented by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, United Way of Denton County and United Way of Tarrant County
Education Session Speakers:
- Dr. Eric Ban, Founder, Economic Mobility Center
- Celia Hall, Texas Instruments Fellow, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
- Dean April Sanders, Dean of the College of Innovation and Design, East Texas A&M University-Commerce
EDUCATION SESSION
October 14: Noon – 1:00pm CT
Building Talent Pathways: Education, Credentials and Workforce Readiness in North Texas
As North Texas industries continue to evolve, adult learning, postsecondary education and workforce credentialing programs are playing a critical role in preparing students and workers for high-demand careers.
This webinar will explore how micro-credentials, stackable credentials and other workforce-aligned training pathways can expand economic mobility and help meet regional labor market needs.
Panelists will discuss strategies for strengthening partnerships among education providers, employers, workforce boards and policymakers while improving access to career-focused training and measuring long-term workforce outcomes.
INCOME SESSION
October 21: Noon – 1:00pm CT
Food Security and the Regional Economy: What’s at Stake for North Texas
As affordability pressures continue to strain household budgets across North Texas, food insecurity remains a critical challenge with significant implications for family well-being and regional economic stability.
This webinar will explore how the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); school meals; the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC); food banks; and other nutrition supports help families meet basic needs while strengthening local businesses, supply chains, and workforce participation.
Panelists will examine the potential impacts of reductions or barriers to food assistance on households, food banks, schools, health systems, employers, and the broader Dallas-Fort Worth economy. The discussion will also highlight strategies for policymakers, philanthropies, employers, and community organizations to build a more resilient food security infrastructure and support long-term economic opportunity.
Income Session Speakers:
- Clarissa Clark, Government Relations Officer, North Texas Foodbank
- Jamie Olson, Vice President of Policy & Advocacy, Feeding Texas
- Dr. Julie Wright, Program Manager, Texas Health Resources
Health Session Speakers:
- Alison Boleware, Founder & Legislative Consultant, Healthy Minds
- Nelson Jarrin, Executive Vice President of State Policy, Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute
- Martha Sanchez, Director of Policy, The Jed Foundation
- Lee Johnson, CEO, Texas Council of Community Centers
HEALTH SESSION
October 28: Noon – 1:00pm CT
Closing the Behavioral Health Gap: Solutions for North Texas
Behavioral health gaps are putting increasing pressure on families, schools, hospitals, public safety systems, and communities across North Texas. Join experts and policymakers as they explore solutions to strengthen mental health services, improve access to care, support jail diversion efforts, and address funding and workforce challenges.
Learn how strategic investments in community-based care can improve outcomes, reduce costs, and build a stronger behavioral health system for all Texans.
This event is presented by:
