Lowe’s Foundation Expands Support for Skilled Trades Training with $9 Million in Grants
The Lowe’s Foundation, a charitable organization committed to improving the communities where Lowe’s Companies, Inc. operates, announced recently that it has awarded nearly $9 million in Gable Grants to 15 nonprofit organizations across the United States. These grants are aimed at strengthening the nonprofits’ efforts in providing scalable training programs for individuals looking to enter the skilled trades workforce.
Impact on Local Communities
The 15 nonprofits receiving the grants are located in various states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. These organizations offer a range of training programs in various trades such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and HVAC, among others.
By investing in these organizations, the Lowe’s Foundation is helping to address the growing need for skilled trades workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in skilled trades is projected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Impact on Individuals
For individuals looking to start a career in the skilled trades, these grants mean more opportunities to receive the training they need to get started. The nonprofits receiving the grants offer comprehensive training programs that not only teach the necessary skills but also provide soft skills training, career counseling, and job placement services.
Additionally, many of these programs offer apprenticeships, which allow individuals to earn while they learn. This is a valuable opportunity for those who may not have the financial resources to pay for training upfront.
Impact on the Economy
The skilled trades sector is a significant contributor to the economy, and the demand for skilled workers is only expected to grow. According to the Construction Industry Institute, every $1 billion increase in nonresidential construction spending generates approximately 30,000 new jobs.
By investing in workforce development, the Lowe’s Foundation is helping to ensure that there is a steady supply of skilled workers to meet the demand. This not only benefits the individuals who receive the training but also the companies that hire them and the communities where they work.
Conclusion
The Lowe’s Foundation’s investment in these 15 nonprofits is a significant step towards addressing the growing need for skilled trades workers. By providing funding for scalable training programs, the Foundation is helping to ensure that individuals have the opportunity to start a rewarding career in the skilled trades. Additionally, by investing in workforce development, the Foundation is contributing to the economic growth of local communities and the country as a whole.
For those looking to start a career in the skilled trades, these grants mean more opportunities to receive the training they need to get started. And for businesses in need of skilled workers, these programs provide a steady supply of talented individuals to meet their workforce needs.
The impact of these grants goes beyond just the individuals and businesses directly involved. By investing in workforce development, the Lowe’s Foundation is contributing to the economic growth of local communities and the country as a whole. As the demand for skilled trades workers continues to grow, it is essential that we invest in programs that provide individuals with the training they need to succeed in these careers. The Lowe’s Foundation’s commitment to workforce development is a step in the right direction, and we can all learn from their example.
