This grant provided funding to the Men and Women United for Youth and Families (MWUYF) to address unemployment in marginalized communities of Columbus and Bladen counties. The program worked with area community colleges and local workforce development boards to offer participants electric lineman, EMT/nursing, client services, pharmacy technician, electrical engineering technology and information technology courses as well as other areas with highly demanded skills. In addition, students received training in both soft and general employability skills. Some of these courses were offered in a satellite location near to the homes of the participants. MWUYF implemented an evidence-based case management program entitled “Moving Forward” that provided wraparound services to further ensure participant success. Golden LEAF funds were used for personnel, student support services, training, marketing, software/equipment, and operational costs.
