April 2, 2025
In the heart of Appalachian Ohio, where economic hardship and workforce barriers often stand in the way of prosperity, Future Plans is making a difference. Our dedicated organization and its passionate staff work tirelessly to support students and adults facing unemployment and underemployment. Our mission is clear: to equip individuals with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to secure sustainable employment.
Many residents in rural Ohio and Appalachian Ohio struggle with barriers such as limited job training, lack of access to higher education, and economic downturns that have hit these regions particularly hard. Future Plans tackles these challenges by offering personalized career coaching, skills development programs, and direct connections to employers eager to hire. The organization focuses on education and workforce readiness to help individuals find jobs and build lasting careers.
This spring Techia Potter of the Future Plans team, along with Debi Zander from A-Tech (Ashtabula County Technical & Career Campus) traveled to the State Capitol in Columbus to advocate to Ohio Senators and Representatives to describe the encumbrances and workforce barriers that prohibit individuals in Appalachia and other rural counties from gainful employment. Our team met with Senators and Representatives who listened intently to learn more about the issues that stand in the way of meaningful employment for some individuals.
As advocates for students and working-age adults in rural Ohio and Appalachian Ohio, this team was the voice for these communities as they endeavor to overcome underemployment and unemployment. They worked closely with policymakers to improve systemic issues that will positively affect the regional workforce and stimulate economic growth.
Future Plans will continue its advocacy initiatives by transforming lives and strengthening Ohio’s workforce—one job seeker at a time.
