Employer Resource Network®

The Southwest Initiative Employer Resource Network® (ERN®) was created to help companies in supporting working families while driving business growth.

This innovative approach to workforce development was piloted as the first of its kind in Minnesota.

Southwest Initiative Foundation used a model developed in Michigan in 2007 called Employer Resource Network® USA. This model combines job retention services, work supports, education and training. It assists employees in successfully navigating work and personal situations and employers in developing and retaining talent. The ERN® also works with community service providers like social service agencies, workforce development groups, chambers of commerce, economic development groups and community and technical colleges or other training institutions.

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How It Works

Employer Resource Network® member companies pool their resources to fund an on-site network Success Coach who works directly with employees as a coach, advocate and connector. Nationwide, member companies average a 500 percent return on their investment based on job turnover rates, the cost of skill building and training and increased productivity. 

The Success Coach assists with a wide range of challenges and opportunities—both work-related and personal, which can include:

• Accessing child care
• Dealing with financial pressures
• Budgeting, banking or building a credit score
• Affordable housing options
• Transportation and car repairs
• Applying for other programs
• Locating counseling
• Managing conflicts with family/co-workers
• Training, education or career advancement

Together, the Success Coach and employees set goals, access resources and explore supports that will help them excel at work and beyond.

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Founding Member Companies

Southwest Initiative Employer Resource Network® founding member companies include: