mi casa resource center community needs assessment report...mi casa resource center (mcrc) staff...
TRANSCRIPT
May 2020
Mi Casa Resource Center Community Needs Assessment Report
PREPARED BY
Marzano Research
© 2020 Marzano Research
Contents
Background ............................................................................................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Key Findings ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Method ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Survey Development ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Sample ................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Findings ................................................................................................................................................................... 12
What Is the Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses and Workers? ............................................. 12
Business Pathways ..................................................................................................................................... 12
Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 12
What Industries Are Most Vulnerable? .................................................................................................... 13
Which Populations Are Most Vulnerable?............................................................................................... 15
What Are the Concerns of Businesses and Workers? .......................................................................... 17
Business Pathways ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 19
What Are the Needs of Businesses and Workers? ................................................................................ 20
Business Pathways ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 21
What Support Do Businesses and Workers Need? ............................................................................... 22
Business Pathways ..................................................................................................................................... 22
Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 23
Summary ................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Appendix A. Survey.............................................................................................................................................. 25
Tables and Figures
Table 1. Participant Primary Language Spoken.............................................................................................. 8
Table 2. Participant Race/Ethnicity ................................................................................................................... 9
Table 3. Participant Gender ................................................................................................................................. 9
Table 4. Participant Education Level .............................................................................................................. 10
Table 5. Participant Business/Employment Status .................................................................................... 10
Table 6. Participant Business Industry or Work .......................................................................................... 10
Figure 1. Among Business Pathways Participants, Over Half Who Were in Business Had Been
Negatively Impacted by COVID-19 .................................................................................................................. 12
Figure 2. Among Career Pathways Participants, 35% Were Working, but 17% Were Worried ... 13
Figure 3. Nonessential Industries Such as Accommodation and Food Services Were Most
Vulnerable to the Impact of COVID-19 .......................................................................................................... 14
Figure 4. Small Businesses Were Most Vulnerable .................................................................................... 15
Figure 5. Workers from Low-Income Households Were Most Vulnerable to Job Loss .................. 16
Figure 6. Minority Workers Had Been Laid Off More Frequently ......................................................... 17
Figure 7. Loss of Sales Was the Greatest Concern for Business Pathways Respondents Who
Were in Business .................................................................................................................................................. 18
Figure 8. Loss of Sales and Health Were the Greatest Concerns for Business Pathways
Respondents Across Industries ........................................................................................................................ 19
Figure 9. Career Pathways Respondents Were Most Concerned About Not Being Able to Work
Due to Hiring Freezes .......................................................................................................................................... 20
Figure 10. Meeting Basic Needs Was Primary for Business Pathways Respondents ...................... 20
Figure 11. Meeting Basic Needs Was Primary Concern Across All Industries ................................... 21
Figure 12. Career Pathways Respondents Primary Concern Was Meeting Basic Needs ................ 22
Figure 13. Business Pathways Respondents Wanted Support in Basic Needs as Well as Business
Consulting............................................................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 14. Across Industries, Business Pathways Respondents Wanted Support in Basic Needs
and Business Consulting .................................................................................................................................... 23
Figure 15. Career Pathways Respondents Needed Support in Basic Needs and Career Coaching
................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Background
Since 1976, Mi Casa Resource Center (MCRC) has identified and responded to the needs of
low-income individuals and families in pursuit of its mission to create pathways to
economic opportunity. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020,
MCRC launched a crisis support and recovery campaign targeting our community of 2,000
active participants and other low-income students, workers and small business owners in
need of support to navigate the post-COVID economy.
MCRC is Denver’s largest and longest-standing Latinx-led and serving organization, with a
strong reputation as a trusted and valued community resource. In 2019, MCRC adopted a
new strategic framework and core values, one of which is: We are relentless in response
to a changing world. Since the closure of MCRC’s facility in March, the organization has
transformed its service delivery model to provide support to its participant community
without interruption.
MCRC estimates a significant increase in demand for the services it provides in the coming
months. Since the early weeks of the COVID-19 crisis, MCRC has connected participants to
resources to meet basic needs; guided workers/business owners through crisis support
processes (filing for unemployment insurance, submitting economic injury claims, applying
for small business grants and loans); and informed the community about how to maintain and/or replace income during the crisis.
As part of MCRC’s COVID-19 support and recovery campaign, the first step was to conduct
an extensive outreach effort to provide one-on-one support to 2,000 active participants.
Frontline MCRC staff reached out by phone to connect with participants and to conduct a
formal needs assessment. The purpose of the assessment was to identify how best to focus MCRC’s crisis support during this first phase of the COVID-19 crisis.
Using MCRC’s robust data tracking system, MCRC captured results and engaged Marzano
Research to provide analysis that will allow MCRC to share the findings broadly with a
variety of community stakeholders and act as a tool to advocate for resources and systemic
reforms to improve the lives of those most impacted by COVID-19.
Executive Summary
The current report provides a snapshot of the COVID-19 impact on small businesses and
workers participating in Mi Casa Resource Center (MCRC) Business and Career Pathways
programs. The findings reflect negative impacts being felt by many small businesses and
workers who participate in MCRC programs. Specific industries deemed “nonessential”
along with low-income and minority populations are more vulnerable to the loss of
business and income than others. Based on an analysis of the available data, the following
key findings organized by research questions inform recommendations for providing
additional resources and support to participants.
Key Findings
1. Impact of COVID-19 on small
businesses and workers
Key Finding: Over half (55%, n = 260)
of small businesses have been
negatively impacted by COVID-19 and
17% (n = 38) of workers were nervous
about their current employment
situation. Thirty-nine percent (n = 183)
of Business Pathways participants
reported losing business and another
16% (n = 77) were reportedly on the
brink of failure because of COVID-19. Few
(35%, n = 98) workers in the Career
Pathways program indicated that they
were currently working, and 17% (n =
38) were “nervous about what is going to
happen.” Another 19% (n = 42) shared
other ways COVID-19 has impacted their
employment including, working reduced
hours, or not working because they need
to care for children now at home or for
health reasons.
2. Vulnerable industries
Key Finding: Small business owners
representing industries deemed
“nonessential” were more likely to be
forced to close. Respondents reporting
revenues of $60,000 or less made up 85%
of all Business Pathways respondents
who cited loss of business or closures.
Vulnerable industries in the current
sample included
hospitality/accommodation, food
services, real estate, retail, and
entertainment. Business Pathways
participants working in these industries
more frequently (80%, n = 133) reported
to have lost business or to be on the brink
of failure. By contrast, industries that
appear less vulnerable in the current
sample are those that could transition to
working remotely or were deemed
essential such as professional and
technical services, finance, and insurance.
3. Vulnerable populations
Key Finding: The most vulnerable
workers who already receive the
lowest wages and have the least
education were more likely to report
being laid off. In the current sample, the
workers most impacted were also those
already on the edge of not meeting self-
sufficiency. Most Career Pathways
participants (76%) in the current sample
reported an income less than what would
be considered self-sufficient ($72,223) for
a family of four in Denver county1. Eleven
percent of Career Pathways participants
making $50,000 or less reported being
recently laid off. Additionally, more
minority workers in the current Career
Pathways sample reported being recently
laid off or worried about what will happen with their job.
4. Small business and worker
concerns
Key Finding: Small business owners
and workers were primarily
concerned for their health and getting
sick. Businesses in operation were most
concerned about loss of sales, followed by
paying bills, and health or getting sick.
These concerns are aligned with the most
frequently represented industries in the
current Business Pathways sample which
include hospitality/accommodation, food
services, construction, property
management, shipping, security, gaming,
engineering, landscape, and distribution.
These industries often require employees
to be in direct contact with the public and
are less likely to be conducted remotely
so it makes sense that sales and health
would be primary concerns. These
industries are also more vulnerable to
closures as they are nonessential. Career
Pathways participants were primarily
concerned with hiring freezes (21%, n =
46) followed by their health and getting
sick (18%, n = 40).
1 Pearce, D. M. (2018). The Self-Sufficiency
Standard for Colorado 2018. Colorado
Center on Law and Policy.
5. Supports needed by small business
and workers
Key Finding: The primary need for
businesses and workers was found to
be meeting basic needs. Business
Pathways participants, regardless of
whether they were currently in business
and across industries, indicated wanting
support for meeting basic needs (27%, n
= 189) as well as one-on-one business
consulting. It should be noted that
participants were also unsure about what
support they needed at the time of the
assessment. Like Business Pathways,
participants in Career Pathways also
indicated that support for basic needs
(18%, n = 44) and career coaching would
be helpful. Other requested needs from
workers included supports for career
development options/suggestions or that
nothing was currently needed but might be needed in the future.
In conclusion, the findings also suggest
strategies and opportunities for
supporting MCRC staff to target
resources to their Business and Career
Pathways participants. It is important to
note that 84% of the respondents in the
sample indicated that they would like to
receive follow-up contact from MCRC staff
in the coming weeks. MCRC staff should
continue to follow up with these
participants as the impact of COVID-19 on
businesses and workers evolves and the
needs for specific industries and the most
vulnerable populations grow.
http://www.selfsufficiencystandard.org/
sites/default/files/selfsuff/docs/CO18_SS
S_Web.pdf
Method
Mi Casa Resource Center (MCRC) staff conducted assessments to gather perceptions of the
early impacts of COVID-19 for participants in the Business and Career Pathways programs.
To conduct the assessment and increase the reliability and validity of the data, staff
received training from the MCRC evaluation coordinator on sound survey administration
and data entry. The assessment included nine questions, comprised of closed- and open-
ended items, to capture participant perceptions of how work or business was going, what
their concerns and needs were, and how MCRC could support them. Participants had the
option to respond to the assessment in either English or Spanish. The full assessment
protocol can be found in Appendix A. At the conclusion of each assessment session, MCRC
staff entered the responses into the Salesforce system.
Survey Development
Prior to the full-scale assessment, a pilot was conducted to improve the reliability of the
interviewers and the validity of the items. Twenty assessments were administered in both
English and Spanish to Career and Business Pathways participants. The pilot informed
revisions to improve the clarity of assessment items.
The full-scale assessment was conducted during a 3-week window, from approximately
March 27 to April 18, 2020. Trained staff members conducted the assessment via phone
and email. Each assessment session lasted approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Most
participants responded via phone (96%) and in English (66%).
Sample
Respondents included MCRC participants in the Career Pathways (n = 219) and Business
Pathways (n = 653) programs, for a total of 872 participants. This total reflects a 42%
response rate from the entire MCRC participant community. The median income for
respondents in the sample was $15,366, and the average age was 42. Tables 1–6 present
additional demographic information on the total sample, including primary language
spoken, race/ethnicity, gender, education level, business/employment status, and business
industry or work. Note that the sample (n) in the tables may be more or less than the total
sample (N = 872), depending on how many respondents answered a particular question or
whether respondents could select more than one option (as for race/ethnicity).
Table 1. Participant Primary Language Spoken
Language n Percent of Sample
English 411 47%
Language n Percent of Sample
Spanish 269 31%
Unknown/not stated 170 19%
Other 22 2%
Table 2. Participant Race/Ethnicity
Race/Ethnicity n Percent of Sample
Hispanic or Latino 554 64%
White 202 23%
Black or African American 93 11%
Unknown/not stated 63 7%
American Indian or Alaska Native 22 3%
Asian 20 2%
Other race, ethnicity, or origin 6 1%
Middle Eastern or North African 6 1%
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 2 < 1%
Table 3. Participant Gender
Gender n Percent of Sample
Female 590 68%
Male 238 27%
Unknown/not stated 41 5%
Gender identity not listed 2 < 1%
Prefer not to respond 1 < 1%
Table 4. Participant Education Level
Education Level n Percent of Sample
Unknown/not stated 181 21%
4-year degree 151 17%
High school diploma/GED 126 14%
Some college 125 14%
Advanced degree 80 9%
Grade 9–12 73 8%
2-year degree 46 5%
Grade 6–8 38 4%
Technical/trade school 35 4%
Grade K–5 13 1%
Did not attend school 4 < 1%
Table 5. Participant Business/Employment Status
Status as of last appointment Yes (n) Percent of Sample
In business 331 50%
Employed 47 22%
Table 6. Participant Business Industry or Work
Industry Business Pathways Career Pathways
n Pct. of Sample n Pct. of Sample
Other services (except public administration) 152 25% 9 11%
Construction 133 22% 3 4%
Hospitality/Accommodation and food services
84 14% 7 9%
Retail trade 64 11% 7 9%
Professional scientific and technical services 29 5% 0 0%
Industry Business Pathways Career Pathways
n Pct. of Sample n Pct. of Sample
Health care and social assistance 23 4% 8 10%
Arts, entertainment, and recreation 21 3% 0 0%
Manufacturing 15 2% 0 0%
Transportation and warehousing 14 2% 5 6%
Wholesale trade 14 2% 0 0%
Educational services 12 2% 9 11%
Administrative and support 11 2% 2 3%
Real estate and rental/leasing 9 1% 0 0%
Finance and insurance 7 1% 26 33%
Information 5 1% 0 0%
Management of companies and enterprises 4 1% 0 0%
Utilities 2 1% 0 0%
Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting 1 1% 0 0%
Public administration 1 1% 1 1%
Nonprofit 0 0% 2 3%
Other industries represented among Business Pathways participants included temporary
work, property management, shipping, security, gaming, engineering, landscaping, and distribution.
Findings
Descriptive analyses, primarily measures of frequency, were conducted to understand the
findings of the community assessment. The findings present a summary of a representative
sample of the MCRC participants’ perceptions of COVID-19 impact on business and
employment. These findings are organized around six primary research questions. Data are
further organized under each research question by Business and Career Pathways
participants, when applicable. Career data were available for only 51 Career Pathways participants, so these data were not disaggregated by employment status or industry.
What Is the Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses and Workers?
Business Pathways
Of those respondents in the Business Pathways program who reported being in business,
over half (n = 260, 55%) had been negatively impacted by COVID-19 (Figure 1). Thirty-nine
percent (n = 183) reported losing business, and another 16% (n = 77) reported being on the brink of failure because of COVID-19.
Figure 1. Among Business Pathways Participants, Over Half Who Were in Business Had Been
Negatively Impacted by COVID-19
Career Pathways
Of the Career Pathways program respondents, 35% (n = 98) indicated that they were
currently working (Figure 2). However, 17% (n = 38) were “nervous about what is going to
happen.” Another 19% (n = 42) shared other ways in which COVID-19 had impacted their
work, most frequently stating that they were working reduced hours, not working because
they needed to care for children at home, or not working because of health or school.
39%
16%
43%
2%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%
100%
I have lost business as aresult of COVID-19 (n =
183)
My business is closed andis on the brink of failure
because of COVID-19 (n =77)
My business is notaffected by COVID-19 (n =
204)
Business is better thanever because of COVID-19
(n = 10)
Per
cen
tage
How is business going?
Figure 2. Among Career Pathways Participants, 35% Were Working, but 17% Were Worried
What Industries Are Most Vulnerable?
Business Pathways respondents across all industries indicated negative impacts from
COVID-19 (Figure 3). Some industries were more vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19.
Respondents in industries deemed “nonessential”—including hospitality/accommodation,
food services, real estate, retail, and entertainment— more frequently (80%, n = 133)
reported that they had lost business, were forced to close, or were on the brink of failure.
By contrast, respondents in less vulnerable industries—including professional and
technical services, finance, and insurance— could continue working remotely or were deemed essential.
1%7%
12%16% 17% 19%
27%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
I am jobsearching andoptimistic (n =
2)
I am jobsearching but
have fewoptions (n =15)
I was recentlylaid off (n = 26)
I amunemployed
and not lookingto reenter theworkforce atthis time (n =
36)
I am workingbut nervous
about what isgoing to
happen (n =38)
Other (n = 42) I am workingwith no
worries (n =60)
Per
cen
t
How is work going?
Figure 3. Nonessential Industries Such as Hospitality/Accommodation and Food Services
Were Most Vulnerable to the Impact of COVID-19
Additionally, respondents reporting revenues of $60,000 or less made up 85% of all
Business Pathways respondents who cited loss of business or closures (Figure 4).
13%
20%
27%
29%
32%
33%
36%
37%
40%
42%
45%
50%
50%
55%
67%
67%
50%
6%
20%
27%
29%
15%
33%
27%
22%
2%
18%
36%
17%
100%
50%
31%
40%
18%
14%
29%
33%
18%
25%
20%
38%
20%
9%
13%
9%
1%
2%
17%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%100%
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (n = 1)
Management of Companies & Enterprises (n =2)
Professional Scientific & Technical Services (n = 16)
Finance & Insurance (n = 5)
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (n = 11)
Educational Services (n = 7)
Retail Trade (n = 34)
Administrative & Support (n = 3)
Health Care & Social Assistance (n = 11)
Other Services (except Public Administration) (n = 81)
Wholesale Trade (n = 5)
Construction (n = 64)
Accommodation & Food Services (n = 49)
Real Estate & Rental & Leasing (n = 4)
Utilities (n = 2)
Transportation & Warehousing (n = 11)
Information (n = 3)
Manufacturing (n = 6)
Percent
Ind
ust
ry
I have lost business as a result of COVID-19
My business is closed and is on the brink of failure because ofCOVID-19My business is not affected by COVID-19
Business is better than ever because of COVID-19
Figure 4. Small Businesses Were Most Vulnerable
Which Populations Are Most Vulnerable?
The most vulnerable industries were also likely to employ more minority workers who received the lowest wages and had less education2. In the current sample, the workers who
were most impacted were those who were already on the edge of not meeting self-
sufficiency. Most Career Pathways respondents (76%) in the sample reported a lower income than that considered self-sufficient ($72,223) for a family of four in Denver county.3
Eleven percent of Career Pathways respondents making $50,000 or less reported that they
had been recently laid off (Figure 5). Additionally, more minority workers among the
Career Pathways respondents reported that they had been recently laid off or were
worried about what would happen with their jobs (Figure 6).
2 Lund, S., Ellingrud, K., Hancock, B., Manyika, J. and Dua, A. (2020). Lives and livelihoods: Assessing the near-term impact of COVID-19 on US workers. McKinsey Global Institute. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/lives-and-livelihoods-assessing-the-near-term-impact-of-covid-19-on-us-workers
3 Pearce, D. M. (2018). The self-sufficiency standard for Colorado 2018. Colorado Center on Law and Policy. http://www.selfsufficiencystandard.org/sites/default/files/selfsuff/docs/CO18_SSS_Web.pdf
56%
11%
33%
17%
11%
23%
27%
27%
44%
28%
30%
22%
6%
12%
13%
16%
15%
15%
22%
22%
17%
42%
33%
31%
29%
31%
19%
23%
23%
8%
8%
6%
4%
2%
4%
22%
44%
42%
33%
44%
31%
42%
25%
21%
34%
33%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
100,000+ (n = 18)
90,000 - 100,000 (n = 9)
80,000 - 90,000 (n = 12)
70,000 - 80,000 (n = 12)
60,000 - 70,000 (n = 18)
50,000 - 60,000 (n = 26)
40, 000 - 50,000 (n = 48)
30,000 - 40000 (n = 55)
20,000 - 30,000 (n =68)
10,000 - 20,000 (n = 53)
0 - 10,000 (n = 40)
Percent
An
nu
al r
even
ue
I have lost business as a result of COVID-19
My business is closed and is on the brink of failure because of COVID-19
My business is not affected by COVID-19
Business is better than ever because of COVID-19
Other
Figure 5. Workers from Low-Income Households Were Most Vulnerable to Job Loss
67%
29%
17%
57%
8%
33%
35%
27%
33%
57%
50%
14%
31%
25%
13%
7%
14%
8%
9%
17%
13%
24%
17%
14%
38%
17%
8%
17%
14%
15%
25%
22%
25%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
70,000 - 80,000 (n = 3)
60,000 - 70,000 (n = 7)
50,000 - 60,000 (n = 6)
40,000 - 50,000 (n = 7)
30,000 - 40,000 (n = 13)
20,000 - 30,000 (n = 12)
10,000 - 20,000 (n = 23)
0- 10, 000 (n = 100)
Percent
Inco
me
I am working with no worries
I am working but nervous about what is going to happen
I am job searching but have few options
I am unemployed and not looking to reenter the workforce at this time
I was recently laid off
Other
Figure 6. Minority Workers Had Been Laid Off More Frequently
What Are the Concerns of Businesses and Workers?
Business Pathways
Business Pathways respondents indicated their concerns. Those who were in business
were most concerned about loss of sales, followed by paying bills, maintaining health, and
becoming sick (Figure 7). Those who were not in business were primarily concerned about
health or sickness. Across industries in the current sample, the greatest concerns were loss
of sales, followed by paying bills and becoming sick (Figure 8). These concerns were
11%
35%
26%
36%
17%
22%
6%
19%
18%
15%
6%
2%
11%
7%
18%
11%
22%
19%
18%
19%
22%
29%
12%
9%
11%
24%
17%
9%
26%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
American Indian or Alaska Native (n = 9)
Black or African American (n = 17)
Hispanic or Latino (n = 145)
Unknown/Not Stated (n = 11)
White (n = 53)
Percent
Rac
e/et
hn
icit
y
I am working with no worries
I am working but nervous about what is going to happen
I am job searching and optimistic
I am job searching but have few options
I am unemployed and not looking to reenter the workforce at this time
I was recently laid off
Other
aligned with the most frequently represented industries in the Business Pathways sample
(Table 6), which included hospitality/accommodation, food services, construction,
property management, shipping, security, gaming, engineering, landscaping, and
distribution. These industries often require employees to be in direct contact with the
public and are less likely to be conducted remotely. These industries are also more
vulnerable to closures as they are considered nonessential.
Figure 7. Loss of Sales Was the Greatest Concern for Business Pathways Respondents Who
Were in Business
28%
1%
14%
2% 3%
19%18%
4%
29%
8%4%
19%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Health/gettingsick
Lay off myemployees/staff
disruptions
Loss ofsales/significantdecrease in sales
Ordered to shutdown
Supply chaindisruptions
Unable to paybills or financial
obligations
Per
cen
t
Business concerns
Not currently in business (n = 233) Currently in business (n = 309)
Figure 8. Loss of Sales and Health Were the Greatest Concerns for Business Pathways
Respondents Across Industries
Career Pathways
Career Pathways respondents were primarily concerned with hiring freezes (21%, n = 46),
followed by health and sickness (18%, n = 40; Figure 9). Many of the responses for the
“other” option (46%, n = 100) included concerns about financial uncertainties, concerns about child care due to school closures, or no concerns at all.
14%
14%
19%
20%
25%
25%
27%
27%
27%
29%
50%
67%
100%
20%
5%
3%
9%
6%
33%
33%
14%
20%
50%
67%
23%
33%
39%
20%
13%
25%
27%
36%
45%
18%
14%
50%
14%
12%
2%
6%
9%
18%
17%
4%
3%
20%
0%
0%
9%
9%
12%
33%
29%
40%
22%
29%
14%
6%
25%
27%
9%
18%
50%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Administrative & Support (n = 3)
Educational Services (n = 7)
Finance & Insurance (n = 5)
Management of Companies & Enterprises (n = 2)
Manufacturing (n = 6)
Other Services (except Public Administration) (n =…
Accommodation & Food Services (n = 49)
Construction (n = 64)
Wholesale Trade (n = 5)
Professional Scientific & Technical Services (n = 16)
Real Estate & Rental & Leasing (n = 4)
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (n = 11)
Health Care & Social Assistance (n = 11)
Transportation & Warehousing (n = 11)
Retail Trade (n = 34)
Utilities (n = 2)
Information (n = 3)
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (n =1)
Percent
Ind
ust
ry
Health/getting sick Lay off my employees/staff disruptions
Loss of sales/significant decrease in sales Ordered to shut down
Supply chain disruptions Unable to pay bills or financial obligations
Figure 9. Career Pathways Respondents Were Most Concerned About Not Being Able to Work
Due to Hiring Freezes
What Are the Needs of Businesses and Workers?
Business Pathways
Across industries, and regardless of whether they were in business or not, respondents
most frequently (24%, n = 101, and 32%, n = 88 respectively) cited how to meet basic
needs as the greatest need (Figures 10–11). Follow-up conversations with respondents should focus on what basic needs can be supported.
Figure 10. Meeting Basic Needs Was Primary for Business Pathways Respondents
2%13%
18% 21%
46%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%
100%
Not having digitalinterview/job searchskills to get a job (n =
4)
Being laid off orbeing on
unemployment (n =29)
Health/getting sick (n= 40)
Not being able tofind work due to
hiring freeze (n = 46)
Other (n = 100)
Per
cen
t
What are you concerned about?
18%13%
1% 3%5% 4%7%14%
7%11%9%
14%
32%24%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Not currently in business (n = 233) Currently in business (n = 309)
Per
cen
t
I don't know Loan forgiveness
Care for sick family member Access to capital/financial products
Marketing to customers in new environment Customers
How to meet my basic needs
Figure 11. Meeting Basic Needs Was Primary Concern Across All Industries
Career Pathways
Like Business Pathways respondents, Career Pathways respondents also needed support in
how to meet basic needs (18%, n = 44; Figure 12). Respondents who indicated other needs
(45%, n = 111) cited uncertainty about paying future bills and childcare support or stated
that they had no additional needs at the time. It is possible that since people were surveyed
at the onset of the pandemic, it was not yet clear to many what their needs would
33%
43%
8%
13%
15%
13%
10%
19%
11%
11%
33%
8%
6%
4%
5%
4%
3%
6%
25%
8%
6%
17%
13%
17%
17%
15%
13%
11%
11%
14%
15%
17%
17%
19%
20%
21%
23%
27%
30%
33%
44%
60%
67%
33%
100%
50%
14%
23%
22%
6%
40%
14%
17%
8%
13%
20%
25%
14%
8%
2%
2%
2%
1%
11%
50%
14%
15%
17%
17%
31%
20%
10%
10%
13%
9%
6%
11%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Information (n = 3)
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (n = 1)
Management of Companies & Enterprises (n = 2)
Real Estate & Rental & Leasing (n = 4)
Manufacturing (n = 7)
Transportation & Warehousing (n = 13)
Professional Scientific & Technical Services (n = 18)
Wholesale Trade (n = 6)
Health Care & Social Assistance (n = 16)
Administrative & Support (n = 5)
Other Services (except Public Administration) (n = 110)
Construction (n = 87)
Retail Trade (n = 48)
Accommodation & Food Services (n = 67)
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (n = 18)
Educational Services (n = 9)
Finance & Insurance (n = 5)
Utilities (n = 3)
Percent
Ind
ust
ry
Access to capital/financial products
Care for sick family member
Customers
How to meet my basic needs
I don't know
Loan forgiveness
Marketing to customers in new environment
ultimately be. Follow-up conversations with respondents should ascertain if new or
additional needs have emerged.
Figure 12. Career Pathways Respondents Primary Concern Was Meeting Basic Needs
What Support Do Businesses and Workers Need?
Business Pathways
Across industries, and regardless of whether they were in business or not, Business
Pathways respondents wanted support for meeting basic needs (30%, n = 57 and 28%, n =
60, respectively) as well as one-on-one business consulting (Figures 13–14). Some
respondents, however, were unsure about what support they needed at the time of the
assessment.
Figure 13. Business Pathways Respondents Wanted Support in Basic Needs as Well as
Business Consulting
1% 2%9%
18%24%
45%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%
100%
Paid medicalleave (n = 3)
Care for sickfamily member
(n = 5)
Help finding a joband getting a job
(n = 21)
How to meet mybasic needs (n
=44)
I don't know (n =59)
Other (n =111)
Per
cen
t
Career needs
26%18%
28% 30%28% 30%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Not currently in business (n = 276) Currently in business (n = 414)
Per
cen
t
Business status
Basic needs help One-on-one business consulting I don't know
Figure 14. Across Industries, Business Pathways Respondents Wanted Support in Basic Needs
and Business Consulting
Career Pathways
Career Pathways respondents also stated that support for basic needs and career coaching
would be helpful (Figure 15). Other responses (28%, n = 61) included support for career
development options or indicated that nothing was currently needed but that support
might be needed in the future as the pandemic continues. Because needs were assessed in
the early days of the pandemic, follow-up conversations with respondents should ascertain if new or additional supports have emerged.
100%
11%
13%
14%
19%
20%
21%
27%
31%
36%
40%
40%
13%
29%
30%
32%
45%
24%
27%
20%
36%
50%
67%
67%
27%
25%
29%
39%
40%
18%
27%
31%
9%
20%
27%
25%
17%
33%
100%
100%
100%
22%
50%
29%
13%
29%
14%
27%
20%
36%
25%
17%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%100%
Utilities (n = 2)
Other Services (except Public Administration) (n =…
Professional Scientific & Technical Services (n = 16)
Educational Services (n = 7)
Construction (n = 64)
Wholesale Trade (n = 5)
Retail Trade (n = 34)
Health Care & Social Assistance (n = 11)
Accommodation & Food Services (n = 49)
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (n = 11)
Finance & Insurance (n = 5)
Transportation & Warehousing (n = 11)
Real Estate & Rental & Leasing (n = 4)
Manufacturing (n = 6)
Information (n = 3)
Administrative & Support (n = 3)
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (n = 1)
Management of Companies & Enterprises (n = 2)
Percent
Ind
ust
ry
Basic needs help One-on-one business consulting I don't know Other
Figure 15. Career Pathways Respondents Needed Support in Basic Needs and Career Coaching
Summary
This report provides a snapshot of the COVID-19 impact on small businesses and workers
participating in MCRC’s Business and Career Pathways programs. The findings reflect that
industries deemed “nonessential” and low-income and minority populations were more
vulnerable to loss of business and income than others. The findings also suggest strategies
and opportunities for supporting MCRC staff to target resources to their Business and
Career Pathways participants.
Although many respondents in the sample indicated that they did not have concerns or
needs at the time or did not know what help they needed, it should be noted that these data
were collected in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Business closures have lasted
well beyond the end of the survey. The effects felt in the first month of closures have likely
been exacerbated by an additional month of social distancing and forced closures.
Finally, it is important to note that 84% of the respondents in the sample indicated that
they would like to receive follow-up contact from MCRC staff in the coming weeks. MCRC
staff should continue to follow up with these participants as the impact of COVID-19 on
businesses and workers evolves and the needs for specific industries and the most
vulnerable populations grow.
13%20%
28%39%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Basic needs help (n =29) Career coaching (n = 44) Other (n = 61) I don't know (n =85)
Per
cen
t
Support needed
Appendix A
Appendix A. Survey
Script
Hi, it’s [insert name] from Mi Casa Resource Center. I wanted to call and check in with
you to see how you are doing. My primary goal today is to listen and hear what is
happening. How are you doing?
Listen.
Mi Casa sent out an email and text a few days ago with resources. Did you receive it?
Listen to participant answer and record their answer by selected the appropriate option.
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Yes
No
Yes
No
Great. We wanted to follow up in person and check in. How is work going?
Listen to participant answer and record their answer by selected the appropriate option.
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Business is better than ever because of COVID-19.
My business is not affected by COVID-19.
I have lost business as a result of COVID-19.
My business in closed and is on the brink of failure because of COVID-19.
Other: TEXT (forced)
I am working with no worries.
I am working but nervous about what is going to happen.
I was recently laid off.
I am job searching and optimistic.
I am job searching but have few options.
I am unemployed and not looking to reenter the workforce at this time.
Other: TEXT (forced)
Thanks for sharing. What are you (most) worried about for your job or your
business in light of the covid-19/coronavirus crisis?
Listen to participant answer and record their answer by selected the appropriate option.
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Appendix A
Health/getting sick
Ordered to shut down
Loss of sales / significant decrease in sales
Lay off my employees / staff disruptions
Unable to pay bills or financial obligations
Supply chain disruptions
Other: TEXT (forced)
Health/getting sick
Being laid off or being on unemployment
Not being able to find work due to hiring freeze
Not having digital interview/job search skills to get a job
Other: TEXT (forced)
What are your and your family’s needs right now in order to keep your income
going / business steady?
Listen to participant answer and record their answer by selected the appropriate option.
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Care for sick family member
How to meet my basic needs (food, shelter, etc.)
Loan forgiveness
Access to capital / financial products
Customers
Marketing to customers in new environment
I don’t know
Other: TEXT (forced)
Care for sick family member
How to meet my basic needs (food, shelter, etc.)
Paid medical leave (i.e. PTO, heath, childcare)
Help finding a job and getting a job
I don’t know
Other: TEXT (forced)
How can Mi Casa support you?
Business Pathways Career Pathways
One-on-one business consulting
I don’t know
Other: TEXT (forced)
Basic needs help
I don’t know
Appendix A
Other: TEXT (forced)
Here are some ways that Mi Casa can help you right now.
• Check out our resources page
• Check out our social media posts
• Make a one-on-one appointment with a consultant or coach via phone/Zoom
Is there anything else that I should know?
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Other: TEXT (forced) TEXT (forced)
Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me today.
I appreciate you sharing. I’m thinking of you during this time. I plan on checking back in
in coming weeks. Does that sound okay?
Business Pathways Career Pathways
Yes
No
Yes
No
If you have any questions in the meantime, you can continue to check our resources
page as well as our social media to get regular updates or reach back out to me via
email or at this phone number.
If you know anyone else who would benefit from this information, please spread the
word. You are welcome to send them my way.
Thank you!
Marzano Research
12577 E Caley Ave
Centennial, CO 80111
720.463.3600
The research department at Marzano Research supports partners in improving education systems,
practices, and outcomes for all learners.
Founded in 2008, Marzano Research began working with state and local education organizations and
practitioners to understand the challenges they face and support them in defining the questions,
conducting the research, and implementing the answers to enhance educational results.
Today, Marzano Research has grown to become one of the leading research organizations in the
country, providing rigorous research, evaluation, and technical assistance to federal, state, local, and
private partners. As part of that work, we serve as the lead for the Regional Educational Laboratory
in the central region, working with state and local education agencies in seven states as thought
partners and researchers to address some of the most challenging issues in education.