Urban League awarded $2 million for job-training programs

The Urban League of Rochester has been awarded a $2 million Growth Opportunities grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to support programs that provide job training and supportive services to justice-involved youth in concentrated areas of crime and poverty.

Administered by the DOL’s Employment and Training Administration, the grant program provides paid work experiences to young people impacted by community violence.

The funding also supports skills training, as well as employment and mentorship services that help young people increase their conflict resolution skills, identify and develop career interests, attain relevant skills and experience, and set them on a path to earn living wages and obtain high quality jobs and careers.

“Breaking the cycle of violence means more than just enacting gun reforms — we must also take steps to get young people off the streets and provide them with healthy, productive outlets,” Congressman Joe Morelle (D-Irondequoit) said in a news release. “That’s exactly what this grant will help achieve. … It offers hope and sets participants on the path to a brighter future.”

The program aligns with the Urban League of Rochester’s mission of securing economic self-reliance for disadvantaged communities. With over 25 programs focused on youth services and education assistance, the organization is committed to providing hope, equity and economic opportunity.

“We are immensely grateful to Congressman Morelle for his continued dedication to ensuring that supportive programming for our community’s youth continues to be funded,” Urban League president and CEO Seanelle Hawkins said. “We know that the cycle of poverty is inextricably linked to the cycle of violence; as we provide the next generation with more equitable access to career opportunities, we will confront, interrupt, and dismantle systemic racism in Rochester.”

The Urban League of Rochester was one of 15 organizations in 11 states to share in just over $43.2 million in the initial round of Growth Opportunities funding. The largest awards were $4 million.

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