Dec. 19, 2017
Technology training that can pivot challenged youth onto a career path in computing, robotics and engineering is being expanded in Franklin County.
Franklin County Commissioners approved a contract with Tech Corps to bring the Computing Career Corps Program to more area youth. This contract expands an existing contract Tech Corps has had with Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services (FCJFS) for the last five years.
“Last year we provided this training to 75 teens and saw the majority complete the program and make plans to enter college or pursue careers in STEM,” said FCDJFS Director Joy Bivens. “Providing this key training to youth can spark a beginning that could break the poverty cycle for many families.”
Additional funding allows Tech Corp to provide the training to as many as 175 teens by June 10, 2018. The contract allows for up to $229,289.18 to be spent on training.
With this funding, more areas of Franklin County can be targeted, Franklin County Commissioner John O’Grady said.
“It’s important we take these programs with proven success and provide them to more areas of Franklin County so that more teenagers all over the region can benefit and make a change in their life-long trajectory,” O’Grady said.
One of groups to be targeted with this program is the refugee and immigrant community.
“We care for all areas of Franklin County and all residents. This allows for expansion in the Reynoldsburg and Downtown areas, as well as our refugee community,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “This program will provide some of them with an opportunity for a much brighter future.”
The ultimate goal is provide area youth with tools so they can compete in the 21st century.
“One of the things I like about this program is how it provides training and skills that make our youth not only more marketable for better jobs in the future, but also more attractive to college admission counselors as well,” Franklin County Commissioner Kevin Boyce said. “Our youth are successful when we equip them with the tools they need.”
The Franklin Department of Job and Family Services is a county, state and federally-supported agency responsible for basic financial, medical and social service programs. These programs are made available to ensure that no one is forced to go without the basic essentials of food, clothing, shelter, medical care and necessary life sustaining services because of a lack of resources.
Contacts: Jodi Andes, Deputy Director of Communications at Job and Family Services 614-233-2116, or
[email protected].
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