JobsFirstNYC has emerged as a beacon of hope for young people seeking meaningful employment in a city of abundant opportunities and complex challenges. Under the leadership of CEO and President Marjorie Parker, the organization has transformed the lives of more than 20,000 individuals, offering innovative solutions to tackle youth unemployment.
Parker, who immigrated from Jamaica in the 1980s, assumed leadership of JobsFirstNYC in 2017 after serving as deputy executive director. With over 25 years of experience in youth services and nonprofit consulting, she has redefined how workforce development organizations operate.
“JobsFirstNYC develops, tests, and scales innovative economic solutions,” Parker said. “We collaborate across sectors — government, philanthropy, nonprofits, and private employers — to increase economic opportunities and improve the overall health of communities.”
Parker explained that JobsFirstNYC operates as an incubator and accelerator, connecting communities with critical resources, skills, and investments while providing a platform for impactful contributions. “Think of us as a venture capital firm for economically challenged communities,” she said.
Parker’s commitment to representation in leadership also stands out. As the first woman and first person of color to lead JobsFirstNYC, she emphasizes the importance of diverse voices at decision-making tables. “Representation matters,” Parker said. “Diversifying leadership is essential to driving meaningful change and inspiring the next generation.”
New York City is grappling with a significant issue: more than 100,000 young people are neither in school nor employed, with the majority concentrated in 20 under-resourced neighborhoods. JobsFirst NYC addresses this crisis through a place-based strategy focusing on education, employment, and investment in these communities.
“We partner with over 200 organizations to analyze conditions and implement solutions,” Parker said. The organization advocates for improved post-secondary education and employment opportunities and outcomes, better policies and investments, and fosters collaboration among local leaders, stakeholders, and employers.
Under Parker’s leadership, JobsFirstNYC has strengthened its partnerships and increased funding for programs that deliver results. “In the past year, nearly three-quarters of our initiatives received additional funding due to their proven success,” she noted.
Parker’s transformative approach has earned her significant recognition. In 2022, she was named a Robin Hood Power Fund Leader, a Crain’s New York Business Notable Black Leader in 2023, and a City & State Economic Development Trailblazer in 2024.
“Serving the community well means improving young people’s lives and the economic health of their neighborhoods,” Parker said.
