Comcast has awarded a $20,000 grant to support MaturityWorks, a training program run by The WorkPlace in partnership with the State of Vermont’s Mature Worker Program. The grant helps address digital literacy barriers for low-income Vermonters, age 55 and older, who are looking to expand their job skills and re-enter the workforce. The WorkPlace is a nonprofit organization that coordinates regional and state-wide workforce development programs to prepare people for careers while strengthening the workforce.
The funding from Comcast provides MaturityWorks participants with technology, including laptops, to access virtual learning and career readiness training, such as how to use email, write a resume with software tools, complete online applications and interview virtually.
“The MaturityWorks program is designed to increase job skills and build self-confidence, while earning an income. With access to technology and the Internet, our program participants are opening doors to infinite opportunities by accessing online training, attending virtual job coaching sessions and exploring new career opportunities,” said Joseph Carbone, President and CEO of The WorkPlace. “We’re grateful to Comcast for this grant, which is enabling participants to have greater access to expanded employment opportunities while participating in on-the-job training activities.”
According to SeniorLiving.org, Vermont has one of the oldest populations in the country. The MaturityWorks program addresses the pressing need for older adults to keep pace with technology and increase their digital proficiency in order to secure jobs and expand employment options. This program is tailored to Vermont’s rural environment, offering remote training options to overcome barriers such as long distances to career centers and limited public transportation.
“We have a longstanding commitment to Vermont and understand the important role that the Internet and digital literacy play in building a future of unlimited possibilities for everyone in the community, regardless of age,” said Carolyne Hannan, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s New England Region. “We are proud to support The WorkPlace to ensure older Vermonters have the resources and opportunities they need to participate and excel in an increasingly digital world.”
This grant is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers and creators. This investment includes digital equity programs such as Internet Essentials, Lift Zones and Digital Navigators.
Comcast is deeply committed to advancing digital equity in the communities it serves. Since its inception in 2011, Comcast’s Internet Essentials has connected more than 10 million low-income Americans to broadband service at home, including more than 52,000 in Vermont. Additionally, Comcast has launched Lift Zones in community centers nationwide, including four in Vermont, to provide students and families with free, high-speed WiFi and digital skills training.
For additional information on Project UP and Comcast’s digital equity initiatives, visit https://corporate.comcast.com/impact/project-up.
Read about Comcast’s other recent initiatives in Vermont, including a grant to Elevate Youth Services, a volunteer project with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and our latest network expansion to Westmore.
