PLAINFIELD, IN — The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded more than $330,000 in shareholder-funded grants to 16 organizations working to create a pipeline of skilled workers prepared to meet Indiana’s workforce needs.
Locally, the Indiana Region 9 Workforce Board in Dearborn County will use a $25,000 grant to support technical instruction for 12 electrician and construction apprentices.
“Without fail, employers and community leaders I speak to in our service territory list workforce as an immediate area of focus,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “Duke Energy is committed to helping Indiana’s workers obtain the skills and industry-recognized credentials needed to meet the state’s current and future labor market needs, with the ultimate goal of providing a better quality of life for the customers and communities we serve.”
The following organizations also received grants:
The Arc of Indiana Foundation (Statewide) – $25,000. Funds will support postsecondary vocational training opportunities for people with disabilities through the nonprofit’s Erskine Green Training Institute.
Project Will (Statewide) – $20,000. Funds will support the organization’s Leadership, Independence, Neighborly, Knowledge and Skills (LINKS) Initiative, which connects young people living with cognitive and intellectual disabilities and/or behavioral health challenges to training, workshops, virtual classes, and on-site experiences to help them achieve their employment goals and become financially secure.
