BOSTON — Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts (ULEM) and the Verizon Foundation are partnering to help people over the age of 55 gain the skills needed to prepare for better jobs in a fast changing job market.
The Verizon Foundation donated $25,000 to support ULEM’s Mature Worker Program (MWP) that provides technology and career skills training to under- and unemployed low-income residents over the age of 55. Students participate in a variety of trainings including: Basic Internet Usage, Microsoft Word and Outlook, Life Skills, Conflict Resolution, Time Management, Stress Management, and Balancing Work and Family Life.
Created in 2006 in conjunction with ULEM and the National Urban League in New York, and funded by the Department of Labor, MWP is a community-based workforce development program that combines soft and hard skills training, collaborations with employers, and job placement with career coaching and retention support.
“ULEM is helping mature workers move themselves and their families out of poverty,” said Donna Cupelo, Verizon Region President of New England.
ULEM partners with 68 community-based organizations that serve as training sites for participants to gain a successful work track record before entering the job market.
“Verizon’s support for ULEM demonstrates leadership that is needed during these challenging times,” said Darnell L. Williams, President and CEO of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts.
“An investment in employable and life skills is essential to gaining successful employment. Together, our partnership can improve the lives of families.”
(Associated Press)
