This award provides funding to Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry Inc. (ABCCM) to support initial workforce training at a new transitional residential facility for women and veterans who cannot get employment because of their substance use disorders and/or history of incarceration and homelessness. The project will encourage participants to enter into the growing fields of manufacturing, mining, logging, and construction trades, transportation, and utilities throughout the region. This project will increase the labor pool, eliminate or reduce the participants’ need for public assistance, and help participants enter a fulfilling career. This model replicates the work ABCCM has successfully implemented at its transitional residential facility for men. ABCCM expects 60 individuals to complete at least one curriculum and/or continuing education course or program through Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College. Forty-eight individuals are expected to earn at least one industry/third party certification, license, or other credentials in their job training program. Golden LEAF funding will be used for a portion of salary and employer taxes for 30 women and veterans, participant training, employment support, personnel, and travel.
