2 R.I. nonprofits awarded $360K
from LISC R.I. and Citi Foundation
PROVIDENCE – Two local nonprofits, the Genesis Center and Amos House, have been awarded a combined $360,000 from the Citi Foundation and the Local Initiatives Support Corp. Rhode Island, the organizations announced Wednesday.
The funding comes from the Bridges to Careers Opportunities Initiative, which helps connect unemployed and underemployed people to find jobs in growth industries.
The program is expected to impact about 500 workers in Providence. The funds will be dispersed over three years. Nationally, Citi Foundation has committed $10 million to 40 organizations through the Bridges program.
“Our No. 1 priority is to strengthen our community,” stated Shannon Carroll, president and CEO of the Genesis Center. “We do that by investing in our greatest resource: our people. We are thrilled that the Citi Foundation and LISC recognize this and are providing funds that will allow us to expand our training programs and support services to reach more of our residents – especially some of our most vulnerable community members – so that they may increase their access to education, good jobs and living wages.”
· Amos House will use $190,000 in funds to expand its training services, focusing on people who are formerly homeless or overcoming challenges such as substance abuse.
· The Genesis Center will use $170,000 in funds to grow its support for job seekers in fields such as culinary arts, human services, early learning, and health care.
“Our partners at Amos House and Genesis Center have built track records that demonstrate what works to connect people to economic opportunity,” stated Jeanne Cola, executive director of LISC Rhode Island. “When we help someone find a good – or better – job, we help both families and communities thrive.”