Workforce Development Receives $45K Grant Renewal from The Chicago Community Trust
The Workforce Development program at Erie Neighborhood House received confirmation last month that The Chicago Community Trust (“the Trust”) will renew a grant to support its work with adult learners.
The General Operating Grant, or GO Grant, from the Trust amounts to $45,000. It gives a significant boost to the Workforce Development program at Erie House and will help adult learners develop the skills and confidence they need to advance their careers.
“This grant from the Trust supports our program by expanding class availability,” says Judy Lai, director of Workforce Development at Erie House, explaining that classes are now offered offsite and during daytime hours. “Two new staff members were hired to assist with the expansion and one staff member had his positon restructured to a full time outreach role in order to recruit and enroll more students into the program.”
At the core of the Workforce Development program is a bridge model, offering focused training in healthcare, supply chain logistics, and technology. The courses vary in duration and are aimed at helping students develop knowledge and skills in order to gain acceptance into a vocational training and/or post-secondary education program.
“We hope all students who enter and complete the bridge program at Erie House have a chance to explore their potential by entering into a new, competitive career.”
– Judy Lai, Director of Workforce Development
In addition, Erie House offers students and alumni assistance with resume writing, the job search process, developing stronger interview skills and researching options for continuing education.
“All of our incoming participants want higher wages and a job with benefits,” says Lai, “but without the necessary training and certification(s) in place, it’s very difficult to obtain a career in a desired field.”
That is where the Workforce Development program can make a significant impact in an individual’s life, explains Lai. “We hope all students who enter and complete the bridge program at Erie House have a chance to explore their potential by entering into a new, competitive career.”
For more information about the Workforce Development program at Erie House, please visit www.eriehouse.org/workforce.