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OPA News Release: [09/29/2004]
Contact Name: Jane Norris or Mike Volpe
Phone Number: 202-693-4676

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Recognizes Job Corps' 40th Anniversary

WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao was on hand today to celebrate Job Corps' 40th Anniversary at a kick-off ceremony in the U.S. Department of Labor's Great Hall. This event marks the start of a year long campaign to recognize 40 years of Job Corps' success and focus on the program's future.

“Today marks the 40th anniversary of Job Corps, the nation's oldest and largest residential education and job training program for at-risk youth,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. “During its four decades of service, some 2 million men and women have graduated from the program, and we look forward to continuing Job Corps' tradition of success. By helping young people earn their high school diplomas, learn English and acquire work skills, this program is making make a real difference for our country, one person at a time.”

For 40 years, Job Corps has provided youth, families, communities and employers of America with quality job training and educational services that have helped in keeping our nation strong. From its groundbreaking legislation of 1964 to the first center opening in 1965, Job Corps has grown to 122 campuses, employing 15,000 staff and serving 65,000 students each year.

The largely residential program offers opportunities to secure academic and vocational credentials and assists students with securing placement in education, employment or the military upon graduation.

Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco and National Director of Job Corps Grace A. Kilbane also participated in the celebration.

“Over the last 40 years, Job Corps has provided disadvantaged young people with the opportunity to gain essential educational, vocational and life skills in a safe and healthy environment,” said DeRocco. “Combining classroom, practical, and work-based learning experiences, the Job Corps program prepares youth for stable, long-term careers.”

Today's celebration included a cake cutting ceremony, the debut screening of the documentary, “Job Corps' 40th Anniversary:  A Celebration of Success,” and a musical performance by Faith Vinnacombe, a graduate of the Grafton Job Corps Center in Massachusetts.

For more information on Job Corps, please visit http://jobcorps.dol.gov/.

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