Unemployment in underserved communities often stems from a frustrating paradox: individuals lack the essential skills to enroll in training programs that could lead to well-paying jobs, while local industries struggle to find qualified workers with both technical expertise and crucial soft skills. The solution lies in effectively connecting employers seeking specific skills with job seekers who can acquire those skills through targeted training.
This is precisely the mission of the Bridges to Career Opportunities program model, facilitated by LISC. Through our extensive network of Financial Opportunity Centers® (FOCs), clients can enhance their foundational literacy and math abilities, pursue technical training, and earn industry-recognized certifications. Crucially, they also receive wraparound support, such as financial coaching, to establish long-term financial goals and manage expenses throughout their training journey. These comprehensive programs are designed to connect individuals with “middle skills” jobs that offer clear career advancement pathways, simultaneously providing local employers with a pipeline of skilled and capable employees ready to contribute effectively.
The Proven Impact of Bridge to Career Programs
A recent study conducted by Abt Associates and funded by the Social Innovation Fund, an AmeriCorps federal grant program, provides compelling evidence of the Bridges to Career Opportunities model’s effectiveness. The research underscores the significant positive impact of this approach and advocates for increased investment in programs with a demonstrated track record of success in boosting career opportunities and economic mobility.
Continue Reading About the Study
The Citi Foundation’s landmark $10 million grant further recognizes the significance of building American worker talent through initiatives like Bridge To Career Programs. To acknowledge the Citi Foundation’s commitment, we are sharing inspiring stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by Bridges, leading to promising careers and greater financial stability.
Learn More About Citi Foundation’s Investment
How Bridge to Career Programs Function
The Bridge to Career Opportunities initiative is seamlessly integrated within our Financial Opportunity Center® network. Community residents can access a range of resources designed to facilitate their career advancement:
- Industry-Specific Remediation: Targeted math, reading, and English language support that is directly relevant to the chosen career path. This accelerates skill development for adult learners, preparing them for more advanced technical training.
- Vocational Training: Access to vocational training programs offered at FOC agencies, partner organizations, or local community colleges, providing practical skills for specific industries.
- Job Readiness Skills: Comprehensive training in essential job-seeking skills, including resume and cover letter writing, effective interviewing techniques, and professional presentation.
- Essential Workplace Skills: Development of crucial “soft skills” vital for workplace success, such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and time management.
- Industry Insights: Providing realistic insights into specific fields, including typical pay scales, work hours, and employer expectations, ensuring informed career decisions.
- Ongoing Coaching and Support: Continuous support from FOC employment and financial coaches to assist clients in setting and achieving personal and professional goals throughout their journey.
By combining targeted skills training with personalized financial coaching, Bridge to Career programs empower individuals to take control of their economic futures and build fulfilling careers.
Expanding the Reach of Bridge to Career Programs
LISC initiated the Bridge to Career Opportunities model as a pilot program in six cities in 2013. Building upon the encouraging initial outcomes of these pilot projects and the established success of numerous FOC sites, LISC received a substantial federal Social Innovation Fund (SIF) grant in 2015. This funding enabled the expansion of the Bridge to Career Opportunities model to approximately 30 community-based locations across the nation, significantly broadening its impact and reach.
In-depth Reports on Program Effectiveness
Closing the Upward Mobility Gap: A Key Study
A detailed study definitively demonstrates how individuals earning low wages can significantly accelerate their progress towards new careers, increased income, and wealth accumulation through participation in LISC’s Bridge to Career Opportunities program.
Building Bridges to a Stronger Workforce: Insights from Houston
Explore a comprehensive white paper from our Houston office that further examines the role of Bridge to Career programs in strengthening the local workforce.
