As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, we at SER National and our dedicated SER Network of Affiliates pause to reflect on the profound blessings of opportunity, community, and shared purpose that enrich our lives. This year carries special meaning as we mark 60 years of empowering individuals and transforming lives through workforce development and training.
“Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and expressions of appreciation,” says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. “At SER National, we come together with a special sense of thankfulness that we live in a country abundant with opportunity. Every life, every person, and every program matters. What makes the people within SER so extraordinary is that they put their heart and soul into what they do every day.”
Founded in 1964 as Service, Employment, and Redevelopment (SER), by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the American GI Forum, SER was created to address systemic barriers faced by underserved communities in accessing employment and educational opportunities. From its inception, SER has championed the mission of equipping individuals with the tools to achieve financial independence and upward mobility. Today, through its extensive network of affiliates, SER continues to embody this legacy, transforming lives and strengthening communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
Participants in workforce programs experience an average earnings increase of 20-30% over three years, directly improving financial security for families. Workforce development initiatives reduce unemployment rates by an average of 5%, contributing to a stronger, more competitive labor market. A report from the National Skills Coalition notes that middle-skill jobs, which require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree, make up 52% of the U.S. job market, yet only 43% of workers are adequately trained. Programs like SER help bridge this gap, aligning skills with demand and driving economic growth.
These outcomes reflect the enduring relevance and necessity of SER’s work. Our programs are not only catalysts for individual success but also for strengthening the economic fabric of our nation. From teaching new skills to workers adapting to shifting industries to supporting those embarking on entirely new career paths, SER ensures that no one walks their journey alone.
The 60-year milestone we celebrate this year is a testament to the vision of SER’s founders, who understood that workforce development is essential for unlocking potential and fostering equality. Their legacy endures in the stories of millions whose lives have been touched and transformed through SER’s programs.
“As we celebrate, let us be mindful of the shared strength that comes from working together,” says Salazar. “On this Thanksgiving, may we all be mindful of each other and how we are better and stronger together. Over the past 60 years, we have grown by embracing unity and will continue to carry out the important work ahead. May you spend this day with your family and friends in celebration and peace.”
From all of us at SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we wish you a warm and joyous Thanksgiving. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey of empowerment and progress.