The Center for Healthcare Careers of Southeast Wisconsin (CHCSW) works to strengthen the region's healthcare workforce by bringing together employers, educators, and community partners in a collaborative model. The organization focuses on creating clear pathways from entry-level positions to professional healthcare roles. This work helps individuals build sustainable careers while meeting the evolving needs of the state's healthcare system.
As an AHW-funded community partner, CHCSW has access to resources that extend beyond funding. One of those resources is Catchafire, a platform that connects organizations with skilled professional volunteers who donate their expertise.
AHW has invested to provide Catchafire access to AHW's community partners and Wisconsin public health departments at no cost. Through this partnership, organizations can receive expert support in areas like data analysis, operations, strategy, marketing, and more. This support helps move important projects forward that might otherwise be delayed due to limited time, capacity, or resources.
As CHCSW has continued to grow its workforce development efforts, the organization identified a need to track and share key performance indicators more effectively. With board members, funders, and community partners all engaged in the work, the organization wanted a centralized and easily accessible way to view progress and outcomes.
Through Catchafire, CHCSW was matched with skilled volunteer Jack B. He worked with the team to develop an accessible Microsoft Excel dashboard template to track key performance indicators. The dashboard now serves as a central platform that brings information together and supports collaboration and informed decision-making.
Jack brought a collaborative and analytical approach to the project. He helped translate complex processes into clear and actionable steps, making internal operations more efficient.
"I am thrilled to share my positive experience with Jack," said Jennifer Ditscheit, workforce marketing and outreach coordinator at CHCSW. "His expertise in organizing and analyzing data has significantly enhanced our efficiency and decision-making processes. He also took the time to share his knowledge and provide tools that have become part of our daily operations."
The project resulted in meaningful cost savings. CHCSEW estimates the Catchafire engagement saved more than $4,800. These savings allow the organization to reinvest in outreach, training materials, and partnerships.
This was the second project CHCSEW has completed through Catchafire, delivering significant value and bringing total estimated savings to $22,135. Together, these projects show how access to skilled volunteers can make a meaningful difference for organizations working with limited resources.
By providing Catchafire access to AHW community partners and Wisconsin public health departments, AHW continues to support organizations across the state as they build capacity and improve health for communities throughout Wisconsin.
Click here to learn about CHCSEW's project funded by a 2024 AHW Momentum Grant, focused on creating a sustainable high school medical assistant training program.