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United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County, in collaboration with Employ Milwaukee, has received Deloitte’s Pathways to Opportunity grant.
The aim of the grant is to increase the number of Milwaukee’s African-American men that complete middle-skills training programs leading to placement and retention in high-demand occupations within our region’s growth industries, including advanced manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, and information technology.
The grant will provide $150,000 worth of funding over two years.
“We know that Black and Brown men in our region face barriers to accessing employment opportunities that allow for financial stability and growth,” said Shannon Reed, United Way’s director of innovative strategies for boys and men of color. “We also know there is a need for high-quality talent in many local industries. This grant will help close that gap.”
In October, 25 participants were recruited to participate in Employ Milwaukee’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs, which focus on skills training, reducing common employment barriers, and building a career pathway to employment with wage/income progression. The grant will provide stipends for participants, funding to fill WIOA’s service and resource gaps, placement assistance, holistic coaching, and workforce retention support.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant,” said Employ Milwaukee president and CEO Chytania Brown. “These funds will assist our efforts to close the skills gap for African-American men that has been exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“At Deloitte we believe a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce is what leads to the strongest, most productive communities. We’re proud to support United Way through this grant to help break down barriers and help open doors to employment, economic potential, and pathways to prosperity,” said Scott Wrobbel, Milwaukee managing partner and central region marketplace leader of Deloitte LLP.
The work made possible by this grant is in line with several United Way initiatives. United Way’s Diversity Leadership Society has set a goal to reduce barriers to employment and advancement, particularly for African-Americans. Also aligned is United Way’s work to address challenges faced by boys and men of color in the community.
About United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County: United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our local community. Learn more at: http://www.unitedwayGMWC.org
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