Advancing Coastal Hospitality: Join Us in Shaping the Future!

​​The Oregon Coast hospitality sector is at a pivotal moment. In partnership with the Lane County, Northwest, and Southwest Workforce Boards, we are diligently working on the Department of Labor Critical Jobs grant project. This initiative is designed to align our employment opportunities with the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Good Job Principles and to develop actionable solutions to the challenges faced by our industry. Your participation is crucial to our success.

Participate in the Survey: Your Voice Matters 
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the current employment landscape, we are conducting detailed owner/operator and employee surveys. As of now, we have received 32 responses to the owner/operator survey, and we need at least 60 to meet our target. If you haven't completed the survey yet, please do so here: Owner/Operator Survey.

For employees, we have created a similar survey to capture insights across all levels of the workforce. Employers, please share this link with your employees: Employee Survey.

Focus Groups Insights
We have hosted two focus groups so far—one in Seaside and another in Lincoln City. In Seaside, the intimate discussions provided valuable insights. The Lincoln City session was well-attended, with in-depth conversations highlighting the struggles with affordable housing and the challenges of the lean winter months. These sessions are instrumental in understanding the core issues affecting our workforce.

White Paper Development Helps Chart the Path Forward
Our team is diligently drafting a white paper, set to be submitted to the Department of Labor March 2025. This document will outline the challenges identified through our research and propose recommendations to support both employers and employees. Our goal is to elevate the entire coastal hospitality sector by sharing best practices and securing an implementation grant to bring these solutions to life.

Collaboration Opportunities: Join Forces for Greater Impact
We are actively seeking collaborations with organizations addressing key issues such as housing, childcare, employee training, substance abuse, and mental health care. If you know of any initiatives or individuals working in these areas, please introduce them to us. Your connections can significantly bolster our efforts.

Supporting Positive Impact Programs Through High School Work Experience
In addition to our grant project, we are supporting initiatives like the high school work experience program developed in conjunction with the Oregon Coast Visitors Association. This program provides valuable paid work experience for students, covering wages, PPE, and travel expenses. If you have businesses from Rockaway Beach to Newport and would like to participate, please let us know.

Moreover, we are always looking for additional programs that can positively impact our sector. If you have ideas or know of existing initiatives that align with our goals, please reach out.

Your Engagement is Essential!
The success of the DOL grant project hinges on the active participation and support of our community. We encourage you to complete the surveys, participate in focus groups, and engage with us to explore collaborative opportunities. Together, we can create a thriving hospitality sector on the Oregon Coast.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. | Rebecca Donely, Oregon Coast Hospitality Sector Workforce Strategist

---

---

Want to learn more about the Critical Jobs Sector Planning Grant or the work Rebecca Donely is embarking on? Contact her via email or at 714.483.6542.