ETA News Release: [July 5, 2005]
Contact Name: David James or Mike Volpe
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x3984
U.S. Secretary of Labor Announces $2 Million Grant to Train
At-Risk Youth
WASHINGTON - U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a grant of more than $2 million to the Opportunities Industrialization Centers (OIC) of America to offer skills training to young people ages 16-24. The funding will support the "Developing Self Sufficiency for Youth Who Dropped Out" project.
"This grant will help equip young adults with the skills they need to find good jobs," said Secretary Chao. "This is an investment in the potential of young people to turn their lives around and get on a path to a rewarding career and a better life."
OIC of America will work with eight affiliate sites across the country that have established relationships with local One-Stop Career Centers and the court system. The project will offer skills training, including basic skills education, GED preparation, hands-on computer literacy training, adult mentoring and post-program support. Affiliates of the program also will work to secure work experiences and employment opportunities for participants.
The grant will also help participants enter community colleges and other skills training programs to provide specialized training and increase basic job preparation skills. As part of the project, OIC of America will work to establish a model program with notable practices that may be replicated in other areas.
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