Telling Stories with Data: The Right Story, for the Right Audience, at the Right Time

April 21, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

We’ve all heard the saying, “Data is only as powerful as the story it tells.” Easy to say—trickier to do, especially when every audience cares about a different story.

In this hands‑on session, we’ll work through real workforce development scenarios to practice matching the right data to the right audience, message, and purpose. No jargon, no over‑complication—just a practical, accessible framework that helps you:

1.     Ask smarter questions that lead you to the right data (using publicly available federal and state sources)
2.     Break down the numbers so you understand what they actually mean
3.     Transform data into targeted, compelling narratives that resonate with specific audiences

You’ll leave feeling confident, clear, and ready to turn data into stories that truly land.

Presented by: Amy A Brombos, EdD, Data Dissemination Specialist, Customer Liaison & Marketing Services Office/Data Dissemination & Training Branch at the U.S. Census Bureau

Advocacy 101 - Speaking Up for Workforce Development 

May 19, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Workforce professionals play a critical role in shaping policies that strengthen local economies and expand opportunities for job seekers and employers. Advocacy 101 is designed to equip workforce leaders and practitioners with the knowledge and confidence to effectively communicate with elected officials about the issues that matter most to their communities.

Presented by: Therese Daly, President & CEO; The Big Ugly, LLC

ALICE and the Workforce: Understanding Financial Pressures on Working Families

June 24, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This session examines New York’s ALICE population—households that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed—who earn above the federal poverty level yet still struggle to afford basic necessities. Using the latest United Way of New York State data, we’ll explore how rising costs for housing, childcare, transportation, healthcare, and other essentials drive financial insecurity across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Designed for workforce professionals, the workshop connects ALICE data to workforce and community planning, offering a clearer understanding of the pressures facing working families and how systems can better respond.

Presented By:  Therese Daly, Executive Director; United Way of New York State