$9 million in grants from Lowe’s is going to support 15 nonprofits dedicated to training the next generation of tradespeople to meet the growing demand for workers—fueled by rising wages and expanding job opportunities.
The grants support training programs focusing on carpentry and construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and appliance repair.
From Alaska to Mississippi, each organization is helping prepare new tradespeople to fill the dearth in the US workforce.
In construction alone, average hourly earnings have risen 4.4% over the past 12 months, according to Associated Builders and Contractors.
“We listen closely to contractors and know that many candidates don’t have the necessary skills to fill the wide range of open trades positions,” said Janice Dupré, a Lowe’s executive vice president and chair of the Lowe’s Foundation in a press release.
“Through modern training methods, these nonprofits are unlocking the workforce’s potential while building an economy that rewards skills, not just titles or four-year degrees.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of America is one of the 15 nonprofits and will enhance their job readiness programs for youth ages 16-24 at three club locations—Hobe Sound, Florida, Madison, Wisconsin, and Seattle.
CHECK OUT THIS TRAINING: Gen Z Stonemason Restores Iconic European Landmarks Damaged in WWII –And Shares Amazing Videos (WATCH)
“This funding will directly bolster their efforts to equip young people with the skills needed to enter the workforce, particularly in the skilled trades,” said Jennifer Bateman, Senior Vice President of Youth Development from Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “It’s an investment in their future and the future of our community.”
The National Association of Home Builders says the grants are playing “a pivotal role in helping to strengthen the residential construction workforce”.
The Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants have invested over $34 Million since 2023, backing scalable training programs in dozens of states.
CONSTRUCT MORE OF THESE: Thousands of Circular Homes Are Surviving Hurricanes Across the US Thanks to North Carolina Company
The other 14 nonprofits include ReBuild Detroit, the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh, Uncommon Construction (in New Orleans), Hope Renovations (in Raleigh-Durham NC, the Latino Academy of Workforce Development (in Madison, Wisconsin), Next Step of West Michigan (in Grand Rapids), Nontraditional Employment for Women (in New York), the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy (in Huntsville), Alaska Works (in Anchorage), Moore Community House (in Biloxi, Mississippi).
PASS THE OPPORTUNITY to Youth Looking for Careers By Sharing On Social Media…