Y.O.U. and Towards Employment Host Sen. Portman to discuss JOBS Act

Y.O.U. and Towards Employment co-hosted a roundtable with U.S. Senator Rob Portman and workforce leaders in our community, who serve young adults, on May 6 at Bloom Bakery, a Towards Employment social venture. The group discussed the “Jumpstart Our Businesses By Supporting Students” (JOBS) Act, legislation Sen. Portman introduced with U.S. Senator Tim Kaine.

The JOBS Act would expand Pell Grant eligibility to students who are enrolled in short-term skills and job-training programs that lead to industry based credentials, and, ultimately, employment in in-demand industries or careers.

Currently, a Pell Grant is money the Federal Government awards to undergraduate students who show exceptional financial need and have not yet earned — but are pursuing — a degree. A grant does not have to be repaid, except under certain circumstances. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, more people would be able to afford skills training that leads to employment.

Check out the National Skills Coalition Summary of the JOBS Act here.

Thank you, Sen. Portman, for making the time to be with us this morning, and thanks to our partners Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland; The Centers for Families and Children; OhioGuidestone; Cuyahoga Community College Workforce Development; Urban League of Greater Cleveland; Habitat for Humanity, Greater Cleveland; and University Hospitals of Cleveland.