What's happening: Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! (UPMW) will receive $213,787 in funding to help provide career introduction activities for youth and young adults. The program will provide on-site, hybrid and virtual career exploration activities, as well as provide job skills and earned income. The announcement came jointly from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Office and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.
How it's funded: This initiative is funded through the Governor’s Reserve Fund, which is used for various workforce programs, including keeping youth in Michigan, preparing the next generation of the workforce and providing post-secondary credentials to benefit employers, communities and individuals. The UPMW is one of 16 Michigan Works! agencies across the state to receive similar support for employment initiative developments specifically targeted at prospective young workers in rural communities.
What they're saying: “It is important to provide real-world employment experiences for youth to lead them to careers that fit with who they want to become,” said Debb Brunell, who is CEO of UPMW. “Connecting with businesses in their region can open their eyes and minds to the possibilities of what is happening right in their backyard. It’s hard to be what they can’t see, so career exposure and exploration are crucial while they are in their teens, so they can make informed decisions that lead to success. The Young Professionals funding helps our youth to see some of the amazing opportunities right here in our region.”
What's next: The programs will begin with those ages 14 to 24 who are looking to overcome various barriers to the workforce like educational opportunities, certification training or experience issues. Specific events will be available at a later date through UPMW.
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