mi casa resource center community needs assessment report...mi casa resource center (mcrc) staff...

May 2020

Mi Casa Resource Center Community Needs Assessment Report

PREPARED BY

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


Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 19

What Are the Needs of Businesses and Workers? ................................................................................ 20


Career Pathways ......................................................................................................................................... 21

What Support Do Businesses and Workers Need? ............................................................................... 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

http://www.selfsufficiencystandard.org/sites/default/files/selfsuff/docs/CO18_SSS_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%


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%


Gender identity not listed 2 < 1%

Prefer not to respond 1 < 1%

Table 4. Participant Education Level

Education Level n Percent of Sample


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

https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/lives-and-livelihoods-assessing-the-near-term-impact-of-covid-19-on-us-workers

https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/lives-and-livelihoods-assessing-the-near-term-impact-of-covid-19-on-us-workers


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%




Management of Companies & Enterprises (n = 2)


Other Services (except Public Administration) (n =…










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%


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)










Other Services (except Public Administration) (n = 110)







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%


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 =…













Information (n = 3)




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?



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.


Thanks for sharing. What are you (most) worried about for your job or your

business in light of the covid-19/coronavirus crisis?



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


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


What are your and your family’s needs right now in order to keep your income

going / business steady?




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



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


How can Mi Casa support you?


One-on-one business consulting

I don’t know


Basic needs help

I don’t know

Appendix A


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?


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?


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

[email protected]

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.

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