CFA is pleased to announce that we have awarded a $50,000 grant to Johnstown Area Regional Industries (JARI) from our Community Initiatives Fund. The funding is instrumental in implementing a second tier of educational opportunities for individuals participating in the Johnstown Housing Authority (JHA) Training and Employment Program, an initiative that further enhances the skills and workforce opportunities available to underserved community members.
The JHA Training and Employment Program has been successful in assisting residents of Johnstown with meaningful employment through developing essential job skills. With this vital funding, the program will now offer advanced training that focuses on high-demand skills along with a second tier of training offering approved applicants the ability to take advantage of opportunities at Penn Highlands Community College and Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center.
“What this collaboration is doing is valuable work in terms of getting people into the workforce to meet our local employers’ needs, offering additional training as appropriate, and elevating people’s lives at the same time. The effort is yielding results, and on behalf of our donors we are pleased to be able to offer it continuing support,” said Community Foundation president Mike Kane.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support from the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies,” said Linda Thomson, President of JARI. “This grant will allow us to build upon our existing program and provide participants with additional educational opportunities to prepare participants for high priority positions in the evolving job market.”
JARI and its partners, the Johnstown Housing Authority, Penn Highlands Community College, and PA CareerLink of Cambria County, remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages growth and self-sufficiency for all residents. The second tier of training is designed not only to enhance skill sets but also to address the unique challenges faced by residents in transition. By providing access to specialized education, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on experience, JARI and its partners aim to empower participants to achieve their goals.
This grant marks a significant step forward in JARI and its partners’ mission to enhance job readiness and economic stability within the community. The second tier of the JHA Training and Employment Program is set to officially launch on November 1st with a series of orientations and workshops planned for registered participants.
Community members interested in learning more about the program, educational opportunities, or the application process are encouraged to contact Dave Grimaldi at 814-241-8353 or dgrimaldi@jari.com.
By Tasha Adams and David Grimaldi, JARI
