Three Detroit employers and three individuals they employ were recognized today for their role in accelerating the success of the state’s Community Ventures program that has placed more than 2,000 structurally unemployed Michigan residents in full-time employment in just under two years. They shared their experiences at a small business outreach event co-hosted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, and Wayne State University to introduce Detroit business owners to the program and encourage them to participate.
“Through Community Ventures, we are connecting people with employment, training and other job readiness services who have had no or limited employment options in the past,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “There has been tremendous demand on both the employee and employer side, and we are exploring new ways to grow the program and expand its reach.”
Community Ventures champion employers recognized today were:
- Detroit Chassis President and CEO Mike Guthrie;
- Integrated Manufacturing and Assembly Director of Human Resources Eddie Jackson; and,
- Bless House LLC (Detroit-based substance abuse treatment center) Owner Jewel Saunders
- Community Ventures participants recognized today were:
- Dwight Pickett, Detroit Chassis;
- Terria King, Integrated Manufacturing and Assembly; and,
- Chantelle Truitt, Bless House
“Bless House is in the business of helping people, and Community Ventures really complements our efforts,” Saunders said. “Through the program, I’ve employed 21 single moms which have transitioned from welfare to full-time employment. In addition, 14 ex-offenders are attaining new education and employment skills.”
Governor Snyder announced Community Ventures in March 2012 to help create full-time employment opportunities for structurally unemployed people living in four of the state’s most economically distressed communities: Detroit, Flint, Pontiac, and Saginaw.
The goal was to have 1,000 residents per fiscal year in the program which ends September 30. The program is not only meeting its goals, but growing quicker due to employer participation and demand.
To date, 2,254 participants have been placed into employment through Community Ventures with more than 90 employers committing to the program. According to a University of Michigan Ford School Community Ventures report published in December, the average 12-month employee retention rate is 69 percent and the average hourly wage is $11.64.
Launched in October 2012 by MEDC, Community Ventures helps eligible individuals pursue career opportunities at Michigan companies. The program connects structurally unemployed residents in the target communities with companies to provide long-term sustainable employment opportunities in full time positions. Community Ventures employers who hire program participants in permanent, full-time positions receive a wage reimbursement grant of up to $5,000 for each job.
Source: MEDC
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