Overview
The goal of this program is to address the disproportionate economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on people of color and other vulnerable populations currently disconnected from the workforce.
The program will focus on providing industry-specific trainings with employer partners who hire program graduates, which are developed and scalable in areas such as construction, waste and recycling hauling, entry-level clerical positions within hospitals and clinics, entry level IT careers, and banking customer service.
Prosper Portland is partnering with Worksystems to provide career training and work opportunities. These services are for Portlanders who are houseless, at risk of eviction or affected by increased violence or crime.
Career training programs are 12 weeks or less. Graduates who complete training are also connected to employment opportunities.
Who does this program serve?
This program will serve Portlanders who were disproportionately economically impacted by COVID-19. It will focus on people of color, people who are unemployed, people who are houseless, people at risk of eviction, and people at risk of involvement in violence.
Timeline
October 2021: Program Launch
December 2023: All funds must be spent
How do I apply for this program?
DETAILS COMING SOON
How is this program funded?
The City of Portland has committed $4 million to this program. This money comes from the 2021 American Rescue Plan local recovery funds. Portland will receive a total of $208 million from the American Rescue Plan and has until Dec. 31, 2026, to spend it. The City of Portland is spending money in three priority categories:
- Homelessness Response and Household Stabilization
- Small Business and Commercial District Stabilization
- Community Health and Safety
Read more about these investments in this article: American Rescue Plan: Investing in Portland
Who manages this program?
Prosper Portland, the city’s economic development agency, operates this program. Prosper Portland’s mission is to create economic growth and opportunity for Portland.
Results
The City of Portland is committed to sharing how American Rescue Act funding supports Portland people, households, businesses, and community organizations. Check back for updates on the Rapid Workforce Training and Employment for Vulnerable Portlanders program.
For more information from Prosper Portland, go to: Prosper Portland’s Economic Recovery Investments Funded by the American Rescue Plan – Prosper Portland