BMO Financial Group has announced a $1 million gift to Homeboy Industries, a gang intervention, rehabilitation, and reentry program, in support of programs and regional expansion. 

The gift will support the organization’s programing and the expansion of its workforce development and training hub, including programs at the new Youth Re-entry Center in the Boyle Heights neighborhood in Los Angeles, as well as the Global Homeboy Network, a program that provides a blueprint for organizations and social enterprises around the world working to create therapeutic communities through job skills training, cost-free programs and services, and social enterprise employment. In addition to the financial commitment, BMO employees will volunteer time, providing financial literacy education, job skills training, and mentorship. 

“BMO’s partnership with Homeboy Industries brings us one step closer to bridging the economic and equity gap for individuals in the Los Angeles area,” said BMO chief communications and social impact officer Kimberley Goode. “We are proud to support the expansion of Homeboy Industries’ workforce development and training hub, to help thousands of people seeking opportunities to change their lives and become productive members of the community. Together we can help provide resources for men, women, and youth who have been marginalized and drive progress towards an equitable and thriving economy.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Worawee Meepian)