COVID-19 has taken a financial toll on households across the nation. Prince William County is no exception. Now, in addition to offering resources and grants for small businesses, the County offers free services for individuals who find themselves under or unemployed during the pandemic with the launch of ELEVATE: Building Business and Careers,
The County has committed $1.5 million to this comprehensive workforce development solution that provides training programs, support services and career assistance so that Prince William residents can get and keep today’s in-demand jobs. The program is a partnership between the County, Virginia Career Works (VCW), Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park.
Through ELEVATE, County resident can access a complete range of services at no cost, including:
- Education and certification
- Transportation related to job search or training
- Stipends
- Job placement
Training options at NOVA include information technology, healthcare, and English language skills (ESL). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most courses are offered virtually; however, for courses in areas such as healthcare, in-person training options may be offered in heavily monitored and sanitized settings.
“We already have one of the strongest, most innovative, and productive workforces in the country,” said Christina Winn, executive director of the Prince William County Department of Economic Development. “These resources will not only help residents get back to work, but also return to the workforce armed with new skills and abilities that will help them advance in their careers, be more productive, and help make our economy more resilient.”
Program funding is limited, so residents should act now to receive the full benefit of ELEVATE’s workforce program. The earlier individuals go through the application process, the more resources are available.