Columbia City, Ind. — The Community Foundation of Whitley County has awarded a $20,000 grant to Easterseals Northeast Indiana in support of workforce development initiatives for participants at the organization’s Columbia City location, formerly known as Easterseals Passages.
The grant funds will be used for virtual training, scholarships and stipends, and transportation to hands-on training experiences.
The project will help 40 adults and youths with disabilities or other risk factors overcome barriers to employment. The workforce development activities will include:
- Virtual reality training using Oculus headsets and Transfr job simulations
- Opportunity Labs at partner agency Cardinal Services in Warsaw
- Educational certifications
- ES Gaming activities and curriculum
The activities will develop hard and soft skills while providing education, experiences and relationships necessary for success in the workforce. Goals for the participants include:
- Increased workforce readiness
- Improved independent living skills
- Expanded social and professional networks
- Enhanced knowledge of local job market
- Increased community engagement