Empowering Employment Pathway Grants
Data from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) identified multiple census tracts in Evansville and bordering counties as “distressed communities” due to the high rate of prime-age workers (25-54 years old) not working. Lack of childcare, lack of transportation, and lack of affordable housing were often cited as barriers which prevent local workers from getting or keeping a good, stable job.
In November 2021, UWSWI began addressing this community challenge by awarding grants in the Empowering Employment pathway, specifically focusing on programs that helped individuals gain or advance employment.
Round two of Empowering Employment pathway grants were announced in December 2023, and targeted specific barriers like childcare and transportation that prevent people from finding and keeping a job. Keep reading to learn more about these United Way funded programs and how your donations make a positive difference in the greater Evansville region.
The Challenge
Data from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) identified multiple census tracts in Evansville and bordering counties as “distressed communities” due to the high rate of prime-age workers (25-54 years old) not working. Lack of childcare, lack of transportation, and lack of affordable housing were often cited as barriers which prevent local workers from getting or keeping a good, stable job.
In November 2021, UWSWI began addressing this community challenge by awarding grants in the Empowering Employment pathway, specifically focusing on programs that helped individuals gain or advance employment.
Round two of Empowering Employment pathway grants were announced in December 2023, and targeted specific barriers like childcare and transportation that prevent people from finding and keeping a job. Keep reading to learn more about these United Way funded programs and how your donations make a positive difference in the greater Evansville region.
Nearly $1 Million Awarded in 2023 to Address Barriers to Employment
Barrier – Lack of Available Childcare
We know flexible and reliable childcare options allow parents to work consistently and maintain long-term employment while ensuring the safety of their children. But, many families struggle to find quality childcare that matches their work hours and specific needs.
To ease the burden on these families, UWSWI funded two local childcare programs.
ARK Crisis Children’s Center Working Parents Program that provides childcare based on when a family needs it and Carver Community Organization’s childcare program that serves children 6 weeks to 12 years old, Monday through Friday, from 2:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Barrier – Lack of Transportation
Access to reliable transportation remains a significant barrier for individuals in the region who are trying to access higher-paying jobs.
Missing Pieces Development Corporation operates a worksite transportation program that provides free, daily bus/van services to more than 70 worksites in the region, including major employers in nearby counties.
UWSWI contributed to this important initiative to help people who are unable to obtain a driver’s license, who share a vehicle with others, or need transportation between adjoining counties find and keep good jobs. This includes residents with disabilities that prevent them from operating a vehicle.
Barrier – Legal and Institutional Hurdles
Securing a new job becomes infinitely more difficult when you have a criminal history or don’t have government-issued ID. Language and cultural differences, low literacy skills, and not knowing who to trust makes it even harder.
UWSWI supported Southwest Indiana Workforce Board’s neighborhood-based employment assistance program called Neighborhood Employment Navigators (NENs) in Vanderburgh, Warrick, and Spencer Counties to increase enrollment, retention, and follow-through from those needing employment assistance.
Legal Aid Society of Evansville also received grant funding to upgrade software legally required for processing expungements. This will allow Legal Aid to more quickly address client cases, increase the number of clients served, and improve the process for everyone involved.