Congressman Cleaver Honored for Jobs and Training

Kansas City – Leaders from the Metropolitan Community College, area businesses and social organizations thanked Missouri Fifth District Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II, today for his support in helping the unemployed and underemployed find work.

“This is what it is all about,” said U.S. Representative Congressman Cleaver. “Missouri’s Fifth District is working together to put real people back to work. All of the numbers showing the success of this program are astounding.  But let us also remember, behind each number, is a face. And this is helping people improve their lives and the futures of their families.”

The event marked a celebration for the successful completion of the Sustainability Center project. That project is a job training and social services initiative. Congressman Cleaver was critical in securing funding for that program.

Several of those who have completed the program and are now employed, expressed personal appreciation for Congressman Cleaver’s interest and fight to improve their situations. One man remarked, “You gave me an opportunity to make more of my life and I will always thank you for that.”

Through the Sustainability Center project, more than 300 area residents received services that ranged from job certification and placement to tutoring and social services.  MCC continues to assess all of the numbers, but reports a job placement rate of close to 70% at this point in the process.

The project was developed through various partnerships, including the one between MCC, the Green Impact Zone and the Full Employment Council. Other organizations involved include MARC, Green Works, Mattie Rhodes Center and Prep-KC. Local employers were also closely consulted and advised on job training needs. Those businesses include Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center, children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, UPS, Harvesters, and Apria Healthcare. 

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Belton, Raymore and Peculiar, Missouri. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee. Congressman Cleaver also serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus and Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.