Rockford-based organizations receive $1M+ for job training programs

CHICAGO, Ill. (WIFR) – Two Rockford-based organizations that help empower marginalized communities are each awarded more than half a million dollars to boost job recovery in Illinois.

Comprehensive Community Solutions and the YWCA of Northwestern Illinois are on the list of 33 Illinois Job Training and Economic Development (JTED) programs receiving money from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The funding was announced by state leaders on August 9.

A total of $15 million will be doled out, with Comprehensive Community Solutions set to receive $571,202 and $562,500 slated for the YWCA of Northwestern Illinois.

JTED programs focus on increasing employment among industries hit by COVID-19, workforce training and wrap-around services to support Illinoisans struggling to find employment.

In 2022, $20 million went to 44 organizations to help bolster Illinois’ workforce. At that time, $1,175,000 was allocated to JTED programs in Rockford.

The second round of funding is designed to address “economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed, or underrepresented, who have one or more barriers to employment which are identified as risk factors.” Leaders say priority populations include immigrants, refugees, those impacted by the justice system and rural residents.

Other programs receiving awards in the second round include the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Jane Addams Resource Corporation. To see the full list, visit the Illinois DCEO website.

Copyright 2024 WIFR. All rights reserved.