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OCDA Article Submission by Martin Elliot Jaffe

WHERE IS THE WORKING CLASS? CAREER COUNSELING ADVOCACY FOR THE FORGOTTEN AMERICAN MAJORITY by MARTIN ELLIOT JAFFE

Now that my 40 year career counseling career is over and we seem to be entering another divisive, polarizing political season and a world characterized by turmoil and tumult, I have been reflecting that the last few years there has been one encouraging development in the American workforce: some attention is again being paid to the needs of what I have often termed the working class majority.

I am pleased to note that the current American administration has been focused more than many during my long career on the career development needs of the American working class and some attempts have been made to rectify the decline and systematic destruction over the last 40  years of the most vital career development organizations ever developed—unions.

When I began my career counseling career almost 47 years ago in Lorain , Ohio the smoky air smelled like  prosperity to the thousands of workers engaged in automobile, steel and shipbuilding represented by vigorous unions assuring first rate wages, benefits, working conditions, career advancement—all systematically stripped away in the following years until the American workplace now resembles the vision of political philosopher Thomas Hobbes (1651) where life is, “ short, nasty and brutish”.

WHO IS IN THE WORKING CLASS?

In NICKELED and DIMED (1989) Barbara Ehrenreich developed the broad based definition of the working class that has informed my career counseling practice. Ehrenreich wrote , “ by working class I mean not only industrial workers in hard hats but those who are not professionals, managers, entrepeneurs—those who work for wages rather than salaries, spend working hours lifting,bending, driving, monitoring, inputting, cleaning, caring for physical needs, loading, unloading—so defined these jobs are 60-70 % of the American workforce.”  During the Covid era these are the workers keeping or groceries and take out and power stations operating, not working from home ----they keep life in America flowing until better times arrive.

WHO SPEAKS FOR THE WORKING CLASS ?

In 1950 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics about 35% of private sector employees were union members –by 2020 that figure was at 11%. Full disclosure –in the two public library systems I worked for I have been both a bargaining unit member and a manager; at the social service agency I was a counselor at last 10 years of my career I was in a bargaining unit.

In this short article I don’t have space to delve into all the reasons for union decline  ----minus unions advocacy for the American working class majority is a great void.

For example while NCDA issues calls for and position papers/curriculums on Diversity, Inclusion, Social Justice, they are missing in action on issues of public policy relating to labor concerns.

For example as public employee bargaining rights were restricted or eliminated between 2015 and 2020 I’m not aware of NCDA taking any public stance on this issue.

When China produces Apple products and other sophisticated technological products in plants where conditions are like the conditions  of England in an 1840 Charles Dickens novel or uses Muslims in prison camps  no NCDA position on labor standards has been articulated.

CLASS BIAS IN COUNSELOR LANGUAGE AND APPROACH

So much of the literature of career counseling is indebted to the quasi mystical approach of works like WHAT COLOR IS YOUR PARACHUTE? The endless process of searching for meaning and purpose, the filling out of the endless flower exercise in the Bolles world-view ( full disclosure again the endless process with no closure drove me into anxiety ridden fits at a 1984 WHAT COLOR IS YOR PARACHUTE workshop for counselors)

Working class clients tend to be pragmatic and real world grounded, What educational path leads to what career, what are the key skills needed in a specific field? What is the employment outlook.

While we tend to wax philosophical about internship opportunities working class students and counseling clients often ask about apprenticeships or work study.

DO WE STILL BELIEVE IN ASSESSMENT?

My Eureka moment came early in my career after an intensive training session in using the SDS by John Holland, my personal guru and role model. Over the years I have developed skill card sorts based on data, people, things, ideas , materials integrating Holland codes with Occupational Outlook career profiles, personality and career relationships integrating SDS and MBTI---while assessments need to be taken with a grain of salt and not be viewed as set in stone working class career counseling clients never come to my office and open up by saying , “ I want to explore my essence, inner being and path to career integrity.” Grounding our work in the real world assures our relevance in a world of complex choice and change.

“ALEX”

True story  --referred by his uncle, 27 years old uncle described Alex, “ so much potential, so confused”

Recently fired from baker’s assistant job as he stated,” boss and I figured out at same time I did not care about baking”

We did the SDS, identified strong Holland I code (Investigative) Alex told me best job in his varied past was temp job at local university working with rats on blood clotting research. We looked up some OOH titles and career paths, Alex made appointment with community college academic advisor, encouraged him to check back in with questions, we can always meet,etc…….. two years pass, I’m reading an article in Cleveland Plain Dealer about innovative computerized medical tomography ( don’t ask me, I’m not down with science) ….photo of the technician by the tomography flying saucer like machine….ALEX.

ADVOCACY

We are at our best when we encourage and share a career vision with our clients and America is at our best when we have a vigorous empowered labor movement enshrined in our legal system advocating for decent wages, benefits and working conditions—true career development. These are difficult times as Willy Lomans’ wife Linda stated in DEATH OF A SALESMAN, “Attention must be paid.” 

Interested in submitting articles for the OCDA Newsletter? Email kindig.13@osu.edu for more info!

If you have ideas or submissions for membership email content, please email Maddie Kindig at kindig.13@osu.edu

OCDA SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER: OCDA's 2024 Conference!

Erin Doyle Theodorou M.Ed., LPC, NCC from Theodorou Therapy LLC brings us a fantastic quote to guide our thoughts on the theme of reflection to round out the final weeks of 2023. Erin writes, "At the end of each year, there is a great opportunity to reflect on yourself, your goals, your relationships, your career, and your health (both physical and mental). December is an ideal time to take stock of how you feel you progressed the last twelve months. Perhaps to reflect on how you regressed (we are human after all)."

To read more about the theme of reflection for the month of December, take a look at Erin's full blog post here.

Pulse on Ohio
Issue 3

December 2023

In celebration of National Career Development Month, the Ohio Career Development Association held our first government day on November 27th at the Ohio Statehouse sponsored by the Government Relations Committee. It was a successful day of learning, networking, and policy education. 

The event was open to NCDA and OCDA members as well as prospective members. OCDA members in attendance included Danielle Bell, Jill Cates (Easterseals Redwood), President-Elect-Elect Richard Fajardo (Ohio State University), Government Relations Chair Sarah JanTausch (SRJ Coaching & Consulting), Secretary Rachel Richardson (Ohio State University), and President Christine Yancey (Sinclair Community College).

The day began with networking, followed by a private tour of the Ohio Statehouse including the Senate Chambers, and finished with a policy discussion with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s Graham Wood who provided a briefing on recent and future changes to the Department and a discussion around education and workforce policy relating to the Association.  It was a productive and collaborative conversation where we discussed the continuum of career development and supporting K-12 students in their next steps through graduation. 

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted recognized National Career Development Month with a proclamation. Both legislative chambers supported November as National Career Development Month. The Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman along with Senator Andrew Brenner Chairs the Senate Education Committee celebrated the occasion with a proclamation and the Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens joined in with recognition.

OCDA Government Relations Committee:

Sarah JanTausch, Chair

Alexandria Burns

Amy Harker

Dr. Nina Talley

Christine Yancey

OCDA members pictured left to right standing outside of the Governor’s Ceremonial office in the Ohio Statehouse: Rachel Richardson, Jill Cates, Danielle Bell and in the back row Richard Fajardo and Christine Yancey.

OCDA Government Relations Committee Members pictured left to right standing outside of the Governor’s Ceremonial office in the Ohio Statehouse: Sarah JanTausch and Christine Yancey with proclamations from the Ohio Governor and Lt. Governor, Ohio Senate, and Ohio House of Representatives.

OCDA Members in attendance standing in the Map Room at the Ohio Statehouse on each of the counties they represent. From left to right: Jill Cates, Christine Yancey, Rachel Richardson, Sarah JanTausch, Richard Fajardo, and Danielle Bell.

In the spirit of reflection, the OCDA Executive Board would like to send our heartfelt congratulations to last year’s award recipients. Take this time to reflect on all the work you and your colleagues have done and think about who you might want to nominate this year!

Check out more information on our awards and last year's recipients here

Lastly, we have one update for our OCDA Membership on behalf of the Website Committee:
We moved the Member Exclusive Content section to under the Membership Tab.

If you have ideas or submissions for membership email content, please email Maddie Kindig at kindig.13@osu.edu

National Career Development Month Events

Did you know that November is National Career Development Month?! OCDA is thrilled to announce that we are hosting a number of events in honor of NCD Month! We even have the opportunity to offer CEUs to members of OCDA and those who have not joined OCDA!

Check out our National Career Development Month page and our Events page for details and Zoom information for this month's events!

OCDA November 2023 Newsletter

November is National Career Development Month!

A Message from the President, Christine Yancey

November is a magical time of year when the air turns crisp, leaves turn vibrant colors, and bonfires and pumpkin patches fill our weekends. Families join together to celebrate life’s harvest and reflect and remind themselves of all they have to be thankful for with a fabulous feast while enjoying the spirit of Thanksgiving.

November is also National Career Development Month and OCDA has a full month of activities and workshops designed to provide our members with information and networking opportunities throughout the month.  These activities include Motivational Meet and Greets, Professional Development events offering CEU’s and workshops providing information and resources for goal setting and providing services for special populations. I encourage you to check the schedule and reach out to the NCD Month Co-chairs, Alicia Camak at Alicia.camak@dot.ohio.gov or Hannah Harshman at Hannah.harshman@sinclair.edu for questions. More information is included in this newsletter as well.

The month of November will also see the launch of OCDA’s DEI Initiative. The committee has been hard at work putting together a kick-off event with a guest speaker and is currently looking for committee members to assist and be part of this meaningful and impactful initiative. OCDA’s DEI Committee has been put in place to raise awareness by Representing all members, Advancing Equity, Inspiring Change, Supporting education of DEI, and empowering all to achieve their full potential. You will read more about the DEI’s Purpose, Mission, and Vision in this newsletter. Please watch your emails for more information.

Other committees are also hard at work increasing the value of OCDA Membership; from creating this robust newsletter and providing professional development and networking opportunities to promoting messaging and sharing best practices through our social media and website platforms. These all work together to provide our members with resources and tools they need to better help their clients.

On a personal note, November is also a time for giving thanks to those who sacrificed for our freedom.  I’d like to give a personal shout out to all veterans who currently serve or who have served and encourage everyone to thank a veteran, especially on Veteran’s Day (November 11^th).

Finally, I’m personally thankful for all of you. I’d like to express my gratitude for your commitment and dedication to the profession and especially thank you for being a part of OCDA. I wish you and your family a wonderful November and I hope to see you soon!

Respectfully.

Christine Yancey

OCDA President

Register for Our NCD Month Events Here!

DEI Committee Announcement

Inclusion is the key that unlocks the door to a world of endless gratitude, where every voice is heard and every story is valued!  

This month, the DEI Committee extends a warm invitation to you, an invitation to unite with us in a heartfelt celebration of the remarkable might of gratitude and respect. We're here to applaud and honor every individual and community that, together, weaves our incredible, diverse tapestry.

Gratitude is more than just a feeling; it's a force that bridges divides, creating unity and connection. Let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible diversity that surrounds us, from the myriad of cultures and backgrounds to the rich tapestry of unique experiences within our community. By expressing our thanks, we not only recognize the intrinsic value each person brings but also cultivate an environment where inclusivity and mutual respect thrive.

As we journey through the vibrant month of November, there's a magnificent array of holidays awaiting our celebration and appreciation:

·       Diwali (November 4th)

·       Veterans Day (November 11th) 

·       Thanksgiving (November 25th)

·       Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20th)

·       Native American Heritage Month

·       National Veterans and Military Families Month

Let's embrace the diversity that surrounds us, practice gratitude, kindness, and respect, and work together to build a more inclusive and equitable world. We invite all interested OCDA members to become part of the OCDA DEI Committee by sending an email to ocdadeichair@gmail.com. Your voice and commitment are invaluable, and we are excited to welcome you into our diverse and passionate community.

Sincerely, 

DEI Committee

OCDA Tip of the Month: Showing Gratitude

Brought to you by WBUR, this radio show episode is dedicated to the "Science of Happiness." Sit down, relax, and enjoy the stories of those who find "awe" in life. This may inspire you to show gratitude and give thanks to the many small (and big!) things that happen every day.

Listen here to "Awe: Science's answer to your search for happiness"

Pulse on Ohio
Issue 2
November 2023

On behalf of the Government Relations Committee at OCDA, we want to wish you a Happy National Career Development Month! This is the perfect season to spread awareness of our industry and educate our elective and appointed leadership at every level of the work that is being done by all of us in every corner of Ohio. Advocacy is simply working to garner support for a particular cause or policy. 

During this year’s National Career Development Month, we are inviting you to reach out to your elective and appointed leadership and share about what you do to educate and inform Ohio’s policymakers. It can be as simple as using a contact form on the public official’s website to share about National Career Development Month. Expanding awareness about what you do to support fellow Ohioans receiving career development services across the continuum from youth through mid-career and the “third act” in later years. Below you’ll find a sample letter that you can copy, personalize, and paste into a contact form, email, or letter to your representatives and links to find your representatives. 

If you choose to reach out to your representatives and/or receive responses, send copies of the correspondence to sarah@valuesbasedcareers.com. We are tracking advocacy efforts in order to report on our impact! 

HOW TO FIND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES:

Congressional Leadership:

• U.S. House of Representatives:
  https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative 
• U.S. Senate:
  https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm 

State Government Leadership:

• Ohio Governor DeWine & Lt. Governor Husted Contact Form:
  https://governor.ohio.gov/contact 
• Find your State Senator:
  https://www.ohiosenate.gov/members/district-map 
• Find your State Representative: 

https://www.ohiohouse.gov/members/district-map 

County Government Leadership:

• Visit your local county government website (usually “commissioners”) and look for a contact form, press/media page, or public information officer’s contact

Hyper-local Government Leadership:

• Visit your local city, township, or village government website and look for a contact form, email address, or press/media page

EXAMPLE LETTER TO REPRESENTATIVE FOR OCDA MEMBER USE:

[DATE]

[YOUR ADDRESS]

The Honorable [REPRESENTATIVE’S FIRST AND LAST NAME]

[REPRESENTATIVE’S ADDRESS]

Dear The Honorable [REPRESENTATIVES’S LAST NAME], 

I am writing to you as a constituent and a [YOUR ROLE OR TITLE] working in the career development industry here in Ohio. I work with [INSERT THE TYPES OF PEOPLE YOU WORK WITH] to [INSERT THE GOALS OF YOUR CLIENTS GENERALLY/WHAT YOU WORK TOWARD]. [SHARE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR WORK HERE.]

November is National Career Development Month. As a member of the Ohio Career Development Association, I am writing to you in order to share about the relevancy and impact of our industry. Founded in 1975, the Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA) is a chartered state division of the National Career Development Association (NCDA) and a division of the Ohio Counseling Association. The NCDA was initially founded in 1913 under a different name and is the first, longest first, longest running and preeminent career development association in the world.

The OCDA exists to promote a greater understanding of the meaning of work and vocation, to foster career development over the lifespan, and to improve the standards of professional service in the field of career guidance and counseling in Ohio. The development of any person's career takes place over most of his/her lifetime. These stages are: (a) preschool age youth; (b) K-6 school grades; (c) 7-9 school grades; (d) 10-12 school grades; (e) adults (ages 18-65), and (f) retired persons. Our members make up constituency groups including professionals working in K-12, higher education, graduate students/educators/researchers, private practice, government/advocacy, workforce development agencies, and business/industry/employers. 

As you are making policies impacting the career development industry and the fellow Ohioans we serve, I urge you to look toward the OCDA and NCDA as the preeminent voice for career practitioners in order to ensure policies and practices ultimately support the 

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I appreciate your service to our community. For more information on the NCDA you can visit www.ncda.gov and for more information on the OCDA you can go to www.ocdaonline.org. 

Sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]

[YOUR TITLE/ORGANIZATION]**

[YOUR ADDRESS]

[OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION LIKE A PHONE OR EMAIL]

-END OF SAMPLE LETTER-

*Every 10 years after the U.S. Census, Ohio's House and Senate district boundaries must be redrawn to reflect the results of the most recent Census. The Ohio Redistricting Commission is tasked with redrawing each of those legislative districts. District maps have been redrawn in 2023, while the process still has legal challenges ahead, please note your representation might change in the near future due to map boundaries changing due to population changes. 

**If choosing to include your professional title and organization, please ensure proper permissions are granted from your organization. Often universities, colleges, agencies, and businesses have a process or staff who handle all advocacy outreach. In these instances, we encourage you to check your organization’s guidelines and/or consider reaching out to your representatives from your position as a private citizen where you may use your personal contact information.

If you have ideas or submissions for membership email content, please email Maddie Kindig at kindig.13@osu.edu