During the week of June 13, 2022, social enterprise leaders from across the country gathered in Portland, Oregon, for the REDF Community Retreat.

The conversations centered on building a more inclusive economy and expanding opportunities for people facing employment barriers.

Employment social enterprises are businesses that create jobs, training, and pathways to economic mobility for people often overlooked by traditional labor markets. These enterprises generate revenue through products and services, then reinvest in their employees and communities to strengthen long-term outcomes.

The retreat brought together leaders committed to advancing this work across the country, reinforcing a shared belief: communities grow stronger when opportunity expands.

More than 700 employment social enterprises nationwide continue to demonstrate what is possible when people are viewed through a strengths lens rather than defined by barriers.

One takeaway stayed with me: wider access to opportunity strengthens not only individuals, but entire communities.