Holyoke Community College Receives $300,000 Grant to Bridge Language Barriers to Employment
Holyoke, MA – Holyoke Community College (HCC) is poised to substantially impact the workforce advancement landscape in Western Massachusetts, thanks to a $300,000 grant awarded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This funding will fuel a comprehensive program designed to equip low-income job seekers with the English language skills and career readiness training needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
The grant, part of a $2.7 million statewide initiative, is administered through Commonwealth Corp. and the state’s Workforce Competitive Trust Fund, overseen by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. HCC stands out as one of only two institutions outside the Boston metropolitan area to receive funding, highlighting the critical need for such programs in regional economies. Greenfield Community college also received a grant, focusing on training for home health aides.
Addressing a Critical Need: ESOL and Workforce Development
The program, officially titled Readiness, Integration, Skills, and Employment (RISE), directly addresses a key obstacle to economic opportunity: limited English proficiency. Governor Maura Healey emphasized the state’s commitment to this issue, stating, “We certainly know that language is a critically important barrier to employment, which is why we have focused on connecting workers with the English and skills training they need to succeed in today’s economy.” The RISE grants are projected to benefit over 500 Massachusetts residents through targeted workforce English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) training.
A Holistic Approach to Career Advancement
HCC’s program distinguishes itself through a uniquely integrated approach. Traditionally, job seekers facing multiple barriers – language skills, housing instability, digital literacy gaps, and job search knowledge – navigate these challenges sequentially. HCC, in partnership with Springfield-based organizations Way Finders, Tech Foundry, and MassHire Springfield, is breaking down those silos.
“What’s innovative about this program is that we’re taking a cohesive approach to provide services that might typically be done sequentially,” explains Kermit Dunkelberg, HCC’s Assistant Vice President of Adult Education and Workforce Development. “Now we’re trying to do that in a more integrated way to accelerate people’s ability to get into jobs.”
This means participants will receive simultaneous support in:
* ESOL Language Development: Focused instruction to build practical English communication skills for the workplace.
* Housing Stability: Collaboration with Way Finders to address housing needs and reduce instability.
* Digital Literacy: Training through Tech Foundry to ensure proficiency in essential digital tools.
* Career Readiness: Guidance from MassHire Springfield on job applications, interviewing skills, and career pathways.
* Basic Needs Support: Connections to resources addressing childcare and food insecurity.
Direct Pathways to Employment with Leading Employers
HCC has secured commitments from prominent regional employers to interview program graduates, including:
* Baystate Health
* Holyoke medical Center
* Adhesive Applications
* Pioneer Valley Hotel Group
* MGM Springfield
This direct pipeline to employment significantly increases the likelihood of successful job placement. The program’s initial focus on individuals experiencing homelessness has been broadened to include all low-income job seekers with children under 18, expanding its reach and impact.
Program Structure and Ongoing Opportunities
Recruitment for the program is currently underway, with classes slated to begin by the end of October. The program will operate in three 12-week cycles over an 18-month period, offering a blend of in-person and flexible online learning options.
The curriculum is designed for scalability, allowing participants to repeat cycles for reinforcement or advance to higher levels of English proficiency. Furthermore, HCC will actively connect graduates with other industry-specific training programs in high-demand fields such as culinary arts, clean energy, and healthcare.
“One possible outcome is that they might go on to do culinary training or clean energy training or healthcare training. For others, it might be getting an entry-level position at Baystate Health or MGM,” Dunkelberg notes.
Investing in a Stronger Workforce
The RISE grant represents a strategic investment in the economic vitality of Western Massachusetts. By removing language barriers and providing comprehensive support services, Holyoke Community College is empowering individuals to secure meaningful employment and contribute to a thriving regional economy.
For more information about the RISE program and enrollment details,please contact: [Insert HCC Contact information Here]
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