news release

Bank of America recently announced more than $120,000 in grants to sevenTreasure Coast nonprofit organizations to drive meaningful and sustainable progress to help individuals prepare for and secure jobs. In Indian River County, United Against Poverty and Youth Guidance received grants to expand the nonprofits’ current operations and support those in need.

In Indian River County, with 11% of residents living at or below federal poverty levels, there is a focus on the need for workforce development and skills training to meet the needs of employers unable to find the talent to operate and grow their businesses.

Economic growth is directly correlated to a community’s access to quality education, skills training and employment opportunities. That’s why Bank of America is focused on supporting a range of workforce development opportunities, including education, upskilling and reskilling programs that will help individuals and families stabilize and advance.

A grant to United Against Poverty will support their Success Training Employment Program (STEP) a 3-phase program designed by the organization to help individuals overcome barriers to employment through in-class coursework in the areas of emotional intelligence, workplace skills and job acquisition training. The skills taught through STEP will help participants secure stable jobs in their community and set them up for future success within the local workforce.

 “To have the support of Bank of America means the world to us at United Against Poverty,” said Matthew Tanner, executive director, United Against Poverty. “Not only do they provide valuable grants, but their recent focus on listening to the community’s needs to help build collaborative solutions has set them apart from so many other traditional funding partners. We are honored to call them partners and look forward to continuing to champion our cause alongside them.”

A grant to Youth Guidance supports their Workforce Development Program, which provides academic assistance, career readiness and exploration workshops, internship placement and pre-apprenticeship training to low-income youth. These essential resources drive positive outcomes for these youth and allows them to both explore and enter successful career paths.

“Partnering with these nonprofits to address important issues like workforce development and skills training is part of our commitment to creating sustainable change in the Treasure Coast,” said Susan Rabinowitz, president, Bank of America Treasure Coast. “Investing in the Treasure Coast’s nonprofits demonstrates how Bank of America is taking action to provide the resources and support needed to help build thriving communities long-term.”

 Other organizations receiving grants include Treasure Coast Food Bank.

These grants build on the $2.5 million in grants and matching gifts Bank of America awarded to Treasure Coast organizations since 2019 and are part of the bank’s longstanding commitment to supporting economic opportunity for diverse people and communities.