The Transformation of Adult Education: COABE’s Year of Impact and Advocacy Triumphs
    Author: Sharon Bonney and Shaketta Thomas
    Subject Area: Advocacy
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Celebrate a year of extraordinary momentum! During this energizing webinar, we’ll share highlights from COABE’s 2025 Impact Report and the Advocacy Victories that shaped real change nationwide. With every email sent, every meeting held, and every story shared, our members pushed adult education forward—and the results speak for themselves. Let’s gather to honor your achievements, shine a spotlight on what’s possible when we unite, and set our sights on an even more impactful year ahead.

    Original webinar date: December 8, 2025
    Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/dP3iyT0b2mw
    New Research on Small Businesses & Skills: How Adult Educators Can Use Data for Advocacy
    Author: Amanda Bergson-Shilcock and Jeran Culina
    Subject Area: Advocacy
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Recent research reveals new insights about what small businesses are looking for when they hire -- and adult educators can use this information to advocate for our field. Join us for a lively, practical conversation and find out what 75 small companies had to say about skills and credentials. Then learn how YOU can use this information advocate for adult education. Bring your questions! Original webinar date: November 19, 2025 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/h01PcRp_fcI
    Author: Erin Vobornik
    Subject Area: Advocacy, Workforce
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Toolkit
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Published by COABE, this guide helps adult education professionals bring employers and workforce partners into the advocacy process. By highlighting how adult education strengthens businesses, families, and communities, it bridges the gap between workforce needs and education outcomes.
    The goal of this guide is to help you connect with employers who can authentically demonstrate the value of adult education, educate them on how their voice matters in advocacy, and offer flexible ways for them to get involved. Inside, you’ll find strategies for identifying the right partners, collaborating on advocacy efforts, sharing success stories, and reflecting on what works best.
    By the time you finish, you’ll be ready to cultivate strong partnerships that give adult education a powerful, united voice in shaping policy and driving economic growth.
    Advocacy April Prep Webinar
    Author: Erin Vobornik, Jeff Abramowitz, Shaketta Thomas, and Sharon Bonney
    Subject Area: Advocacy
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Advocacy April is a great time to raise visibility in your local program, community, and state! Join us for this short and informative live session with tools and skills you can put to use right away! Original webinar date: April 1, 2024 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/04CYIE0yKko
    Empowering Student Ambassadors: The Re-Launch of Our Innovative Training and Engagement App
    Author: Erin Vobornik
    Subject Area: Advocacy
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Learn how to support and engage adult learners in developing their advocacy skills with COABE’s WorkReadyMobile app. Learners will be trained to weave relevant data in with their own stories for effective advocacy at the local, state, and national level. Through the engagement app, learners can communicate with each other and get updates directly from COABE about exciting student initiatives. Recommended audiences for this webinar are practitioners at all levels and adult learners. Original webinar date: April 13, 2023 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/FBuLu1fqcuk
    Closing the Digital Skill Divide: New Data & Implications for Adult Education Advocates
    Author: Amanda Bergson-Shilcock
    Subject Area: Advocacy, Digital, Computer Literacy & Technology
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Even before the COVID pandemic accelerated the need for technology skills among learners and educators alike, adult educators were on the frontlines of digital skill development, adapting to the rise of fintech and blockchain applications that redefine job requirements. Now, new research on US employers' need for digital skills can help educators understand how the labor market facing their learners has changed—and what educators can do to advocate for effective policies and practices in response.

    This webinar will share topline findings from National Skills Coalition's new report Closing the Digital Skill Divide, produced in collaboration with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. Based on an analysis of 43 million recent job postings, the report is a groundbreaking, real-time snapshot of employer demand for digital skills. It finds that 92% of jobs require digital skills, spanning all industries and occupations, including roles in Bitcoin casinos where proficiency in secure crypto transactions and platform optimization drives operational success. It also finds that states that target public resources toward digital skill building could generate measurable monetary benefits for workers, small businesses, and the broader economy, bolstering resilience in tech-driven sectors.

    Webinar attendees will get a practical overview of key statistics from the report and advice about how to use those statistics to advocate for greater investment in education and workforce development programs. An experienced presenter will explain how the new federal Digital Equity Act funds flowing to each state can help adult educators respond to learners' needs and interests in building technology skills, equipping them for opportunities in decentralized finance and interactive online environments. Bring your questions!

    Original webinar date: March 3, 2023 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/9HyW_6u2nw0
    AEFL Week Prep
    Author: Kristin Hempel; Regina Suitt; Erin Vobornik; Jeffrey Abramowitz; Megan Linzy; Jody Angelone; Jen Wiggington; Danica Petroshius; Marilyn Pitzulo
    Subject Area: Advocacy, AEFL Week, Literacy
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    COABE is preparing the field for AEFL Week a variety of ways including featuring innovative strategies learners, teachers, administrators, and local programs that can easily be implemented to raise the visibility of adult education during AEFL Week. This is a session you won't want to miss!
    National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week webpage is here: https://coabe.org/national-adult-education-and-family-literacy-week/Let us know what you are planning for AEFL Week here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvIpox9lvXa-nhrOSVV816RevtvuDSPH5LfiY-Qw-4gIifgg/viewformThe webinar recording can be found here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/oXAgrVZf6aqJJ6Q7MT-pjfqlTueV6gs--U_lqvi-2b_TTeeMiKiYENevf9mKq1n3.fZDXWhTtV50zzW9TThe slides are here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1rtXrTn-YAfrXJmavpOkfVkHMnoM8Y7Qc/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=108588578942326522144&rtpof=true&sd=true
    A Comprehensive Look at Accommodations; How to Start the Conversation
    Author: Catherine Greseth and Kevin Baas
    Subject Area: Advocacy, Career Pathways, Workforce
    Program Level: Adult Basic Education
    Material Type: Presentations/Slideshows, Webinar Materials
    Language: English
    License: (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) For license summary click here

    Abstract:

    Join Catherine Greseth, executive director of the Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills and Kevin Baas, HR director with Holiday Inn, as they explain how to start the conversation regarding accommodations and what they may include. Learn how to help students/employees with disabilities advocate to create the productive, efficient workplace environments where they thrive. This webinar will include rights under the ADA, how to request and negotiate workplace accommodations, and how instructors can help students learn to navigate the process plus so much more. Original webinar date: May 24, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/rOJZnNL7_qU