Urban League Receives $300,000 Grant For Workforce Development

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — The Urban League of Hillsborough County has received a grant of $300,000 from the Department of Labor to assist in developing the local workforce.

This advanced program will work as an extension of the current ULHC workforce development program by targeting individuals who have aged out of high school without earning a diploma.

The program, titled the “Hands Up Program,” will provide 25 people with paid 17-week pre-apprenticeship opportunities in skills professions including solar energy, mechanics, retail and more. Not only will participants gain access to a full-time livable wages, but they will also receive free wrap-around services including child care, transportation and GED preparation.

“Urban League stands for helping individuals feel economically empowered,” said Urban League of Hillsborough County CEO and President Stanley Gray. “By giving young people access to a livable wage and abilities to support themselves and their families, we are able to change life trajectories and keep worth local.”

The Hands Up Program is made possible by the Department of Labor and U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa, in support of ULHC’s workforce development programming. Additionally, local partners like Tampa Bay Solar and CareerSource Tampa Bay are key partners in this program's implementation.

The Urban League is currently accepting applications for the Hands Up Program. Those interested are urged to complete the brief application that may be found at www.ulhc.org by Oct. 15. For more information on how you can apply for this program or become a partner, contact Kiah Wilson at kwilson@ulhc.org.