Fund

The crisis in youth unemployment persists, especially among African-Americans living on the south and west sides, and unfortunately this group has not experienced the post-recession bounce back many Chicagoans are seeing. Innovation, access to jobs, trusted nonprofit partners and a comprehensive model are needed for a larger-scale impact. Bold strokes are needed to resolve this cycle by connecting public and private partners to work collaboratively in helping youth receive the support they need, and find quality jobs, with quality employers, regardless of where they live.

As a model and thought leader in the economic development and workforce space, Skills continues to look for new and innovative ways to meet the needs of employers while creating economic mobility for Chicago’s underserved populations. Your support will provide Skills with the tools and resources needed to sustain its Beyond the Diploma Youth Initiative and help mobilize thousands of young adults on a path to economic opportunity.