United Way of Greater Milwaukee has awarded UMOS $28,200 in urgent need funds to address changes coming to the GED^® testing process. The Urgent Need Fund provides financial support to help local agencies meet immediate and pressing needs.

Starting January 2, 2014, there will be a new GED test. The consequences could be significant for test takers in the community. The current version of the GED test is expiring at the end of 2013, and the scores of those already in the process will expire if they do not finish and pass the test before then. According to Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), which administers the GED program in the city, 2,800 students are in this situation.

“This change will create financial burdens, as well as risk discouraging adults who are very close to obtaining their GED, but confused about the new rules,” said Nicole Angresano, Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Greater Milwaukee. “Our goal is to get as many test-ready adults in the community across the finish line before December 15, 2013.”

UMOS, a non-profit advocacy organization, provides programs and services which improve the employment, educational, health and housing opportunities of under-served populations. In order to meet the projected increased demand for GED testing and preparation, UMOS will:

·         Add more testing sessions per week

·         Add a part-time math teacher

·         Offer 720 additional GED testing slots (a 100% increase)