The United Way of Licking County received a $50,000 grant from Microsoft to provide project management training to vulnerable populations, helping them increase their potential income and achieve financial independence.
The program, called Gener8tor, offers online training through Microsoft that normally costs $3,500 per person but is available for free. United Way, which was approved for the grant a few months ago, started the program early this month and will end June 27.
Microsoft has invested heavily in Licking County, purchasing land in Heath, Hebron, New Albany and Pataskala to build data centers.
Cory Stutes, community impact director for United Way, said the program received significant interest and available spots were filling up quickly. It is not yet known whether the program will be available again.
Using a combination of interactive modules, real-world simulations and expert-led instruction, Gener8tor provides a learning experience tailored to the demands of modern industries.
“This partnership with Microsoft represents a wonderful opportunity for workforce development in Licking County,” Deb Dingus, executive director of the United Way of Licking County, said in a prepared release. “By harnessing the power of Gener8tor, we are empowering individuals to gain valuable skills that will not only increase their employability, but also drive economic growth and prosperity within our community.”
Gener8tor provides participants with the tools they need to tackle challenges and pursue economic progress, aligning with United Way’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and empowering them to achieve greater financial independence and security, said Dingus.
The program offers flexible, self-study modules accessible online and personal support and mentorship.
United Way of Licking County has announced its efforts to assist Licking County residents categorized as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed or ALICE. ALICE households face financial insecurity even though household members are employed.
United Way’s latest ALICE report shows that 10% of households in Licking County live in poverty and another 27% live as ALICE households, for a total of 37% of households that are financially insecure.
This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: United Way of Licking County receives $50,000 grant from Microsoft
