The purpose of the Golden LEAF Opportunities for Work grant was to support the efforts of StepUp Wilmington (SUW) to extend its services to Brunswick and Pender counties, including targeted interventions around employment, financial well-being, job training, and placement for low-income and unemployed adults seeking to improve their lives and develop stable careers. SUW addressed both the need for immediate employment for those in poverty, often through the attainment of entry-level or low-skill jobs, and the long-term needs of workers that required the pursuit of additional training, credentialing, etc., to create pathways to living wage jobs available with local employers. Outreach to identified groups occurred through SUW’s partnership with over 30 agencies. Golden LEAF funds were used for training/case management, job placement services, and for new or expanded personnel costs associated with the project.
