Press Releases

U.S. Rep Jim McGovern announces $1.3 million grant for Worcester-based Training Resources of America, Inc.

U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern announced today that Worcester-based Training Resources of America, Inc. has received a $1,300,161 grant from the Department of Labor. The grant, one of four distributed nationwide under the Young Parents Demonstration, is to provide intensive mentoring, educational, and occupational services for low-income young parents or expectant parents, ages 16 to 24.

Training Resources of America, Inc. (TRA) will work with LARE Training Center to enroll at least 400 low-income young parents (ages 16 to 24) into existing Young Parent GED Programs in the cities or townships of Brockton, Fitchburg, Holyoke, New Bedford, Quincy, Salem, Springfield, Worcester, Chelsea, and Lawrence in Massachusetts.

-I'm exceptionally pleased that Training Resources of America will be able to help hundreds of young low-income parents get the educational, training, mentoring and workforce resources they need to be productive members in our communities,- said Congressman Jim McGovern. -This grant will allow young adults and their families in Worcester and throughout the Commonwealth overcome challenges to go on to higher education and workforce opportunities.-

-Being one of four grantees nationwide to receive this award is very exciting. TRA is thrilled to be able to bring over $1.3 million dollars into the Commonwealth in support of low-income young families. This grant will enable us to positively impact programming in 10 communities across the state,- said Kim Harmon, President/ CEO of Training Resources of America, Inc.

Under the program, TRA and LARE will utilize existing education, employment and employment strategy services, case management supportive services, and follow-up and post program transition services to all youth enrolled.

Local workforce investment boards will provide job referrals and a variety of other services, including career center orientation, employment workshops and related resources to assist young parents with employment opportunities. Mentoring services will be provided by recruited volunteers for a period of 18 months.

TRA anticipates that under the intensive mentoring services, there will be a 25% increase in successful outcomes, including achievement of a GED, transfer to college or certificate programs, and placement into skills training and/or employment.

This is the third round of YPD grants; previous grants awarded in 2008 and 2009 totaling nearly $15 million provided additional mentoring or training services to young parents across the country.