The Philadelphia-based William Penn Foundation has announced forty-four grants totaling more than $6 million in support of workforce development and job training opportunities as well as continued support for basic needs.

The grants will provide assistance to programs that offer relevant skills, certifications, or credentials and a connection to in-demand jobs that pay a living wage and offer opportunities for upward mobility, in industries including technology, skilled trades, clean energy, health care, and child care. The funding also will support transitional employment programs tailored to Philadelphians who would benefit from extra resources, such as individuals aging out of the foster care system and those returning from incarceration.

Grant recipients include ACHIEVEability, the Center for Employment Opportunities, Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity, and Youth Empowerment Advancement Hangout (YEAH Philly). Organizations awarded grants to match funding from regional funders include the African Family Health Organization, Catholic Social Services, and Justice at Work.

“The employment initiatives led by these organizations will help support increased economic opportunities and stability for more Philadelphians and their families,” said William Penn Foundation board chair Janet Haas. “The programs are experienced in connecting people to the jobs and careers that will help build a stronger future for their families and for the city of Philadelphia.”

For a complete list of grant recipients, see the William Penn Foundation website.

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