Whereas November 2020 marks the 107th year that the National Career Development Association (NCDA) is committed to its mission of inspiring and empowering individuals to achieve their career and life goals; Whereas a competitive global economy requires workers who make informed career choices to prepare for skilled professions; Whereas preparation for a purposeful career path helps to ensure gainful employment best utilizing one’s skills and talent, while providing potential employers with a well-prepared workforce ready to meet the challenges of the global marketplace; Whereas career development programs enable students to gain a realistic understanding of how formal education prepares them for post-high school plans, which may include immediate employment in a civilian or military occupation, or further education at a vocational program, community college, or university; Whereas career development activities in our communities contribute to lower unemployment as people identify careers that match their interests and desired work environments; Whereas freedom of occupational and career choice is one of the most important birthrights of every United States citizen, and this freedom will be protected and enhanced throughout life; Whereas professional career development assistance, including but not limited to career counseling, should be available to all persons throughout their lifespans; Whereas career development assistance is a community partnership effort involving the education system, the home and family structure, business, industry, and a wide variety of community agencies and organizations and is not carried out by career development professionals alone; Whereas equity, not just equality, of career development opportunities should be available for all persons; Whereas the right to change occupations or career directions is fully as important as the right to choose an occupation or career direction; Whereas accurate, up-to-date information about educational and occupational opportunities is vital