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.
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.
$1.1 Million Awarded in 2025 to Address Barriers to Employment
The five recipient organizations will directly help nearly 4,000 local people find and keep living-wage jobs and/or address barriers to employment such as lack of transportation, childcare, and legal challenges. The organizations or their funded programs prioritize “ALICE” families and those living in poverty to ensure all people have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
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 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 provided funding to support the expansion of the Volunteer Lawyer Program which assists individuals with expungement of criminal records, obtaining a driver’s license or identification documents necessary for employment, and correction of other legal challenges that may hinder their ability to get or maintain employment.
Barrier – Lack of Certification
A career pathway can feel out of reach when the education, training, and certifications needed to get started are unaffordable. By supporting programs that provide credentials such as CNA, CDL, Advanced Manufacturing, and Early Childhood Educator certifications, we help students build skills, increase earning potential, and connect to meaningful employment opportunities.
UWSWI’s Pathway grant to the Ivy Tech Foundation will offset training and certification costs for students with limited income who seek certifications in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Early Childhood Education, and Information Technology (IT).
Funding for Vincennes University’s Evansville Campus will help students who seek future employment in health care as a CNA (Certified Nurse Assistant) or CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant).