WORCESTER—Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) has been awarded a $239,216 Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration state grant aimed at providing job training to formerly incarcerated individuals, the school announced.
Administered by the Commonwealth Corporation, a quasi-public agency within the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the funding is part of a larger $2.6 million initiative awarded to organizations across Massachusetts.
The program focuses on training participants for careers in culinary and hospitality, construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. QCC plans to partner with the Worcester County House of Correction to provide specialized training for 20 returning citizens. The initiative is designed to equip them with the necessary skills to re-enter the workforce successfully.
“Workforce training through re-entry grants enables us to provide vital skills and create pathways to self-sufficiency for returning citizens,” said QCC President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja in the press release. “This not only transforms individual lives but strengthens our local and state economy.”
Graduates of the program will receive employment support from QCC and the Massachusetts Restaurant Association. Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Education Kathie Manning emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, noting that job training goes beyond providing a paycheck.
“It’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding trust, and laying the foundation for a brighter future,” said Manning in an announcement. “We’re grateful to the Commonwealth Corporation for supporting this important work.”
Program participants work with professional chefs, gaining hands-on experience in meal preparation while building teamwork and culinary expertise. Director of Workforce Development Kathleen O’Connor highlighted the program’s potential to help returning citizens rebuild their lives.
“This program offers returning citizens a fresh start and the chance to develop meaningful careers while fostering a sense of community and confidence,” said O’Connor.
Send your news to Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
