Graduation Celebrated the Next Generation of Certified Nursing Assistants Entering New York’s Healthcare Workforce

On March 11, 25 participants graduated from The New Jewish Home’s SkillSpring program; a workforce development initiative designed to address the city’s caregiving shortage by training young adults, primarily from underserved communities, to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). This cohort was supported by a $4 million grant from the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD).

This graduation marks another major milestone for the program, representing a new generation of health care workers equipped to care for New York’s aging population. Of the graduates, seven have secured external employment, and seven have already begun working at The New Jewish Home. Since launching with just 27 participants in 2022, SkillSpring’s young adult program has grown rapidly and is projected to serve more than 220 participants in 2026. Overall, SkillSpring’s Young Adult and High School programs have supported more than 1,500 participants and helped create over 975 jobs or paid internships for young New Yorkers.

“Certified nursing assistants are the people residents see most each day. They help residents start their morning, build trust, stay comfortable, and maintain dignity,” said Dr. Jeffrey Farber, President and CEO of The New Jewish Home. “The truth is, our society doesn’t always value older adults the way it should. That’s ageism and it’s one reason we see such a shortage of people interested in working in aging services. Know that the work these graduates are choosing pushes back against that, through the simple and powerful act of caring for older adults with dignity and compassion.”

Graduates celebrated today’s event alongside family members, mentors, and program leaders who supported them throughout their journey, showcasing the community-centered, wraparound approach that defines SkillSpring. Through comprehensive academic instruction, hands-on experience, mentorship, and individualized career guidance, the program equips participants with both the technical expertise and professional confidence to thrive. As these 25 young New Yorkers step into the next chapter of their careers, they do so with the skills, support, and sense of purpose to strengthen New York’s healthcare workforce for years to come.