Collaboration Between Nonprofits Bolstered by $25K Matching Grant From Shell Polymers Monaca
A staggering 39% of all Beaver County households currently live at or below what’s known as the ALICE Threshold — the minimum income a household needs to afford basic living expenses, like food, clothing, housing, and childcare. Those that fall under ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) often struggle with their finances even when working one or more jobs. Thankfully, several community stakeholders have now come together to help lift more of these households up and give them the tools to get better jobs that pay more.
In collaboration with Job Training for Beaver County, Inc. (JTBC), United Way of Beaver County (UWBC) recently launched United Works — a workforce development program that facilitates greater access to valuable educational opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach due to cost. It’s designed to empower eligible participants with the training they need to secure well-paying jobs and ultimately transition from ALICE to a higher level of financial stability.
United Works funds will specifically support tuition and supportive services for students who fall between JTBC’s income guidelines and the ALICE Threshold. Job Training for Beaver County will work with each applicant to determine eligibility.
To help get the program off and running, Shell Polymers Monaca — a 386-acre industrial complex located in Potter Township — generously offered to match donations made to The ALICE Fund up to $25,000. If you wish to donate, visit www.unitedwaybeaver.org/donate.
“Contributions to The ALICE Fund will allow us to expand the support provided through the United Works initiative,” said Mary Lou Harju, Executive Director of UWBC. “Additionally, they will enable us to continue offering mini-grants in 2025 to other local nonprofits that serve ALICE households and others in need. Any gift is more than just a donation; it’s an investment in the future of Beaver County.”
For over 60 years, JTBC has provided reemployment and training services to Beaver County youth, adults, and dislocated workers, while assisting local businesses in attracting, training, and retaining a skilled workforce.
“We are always seeking partnership opportunities that expand our reach,” said Rich Strother, JTBC Executive Director. “The United Works program aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are excited to partner with UWBC on this new workforce development initiative.”
To be eligible for United Works services, a person must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or GED, be a Beaver County resident, and provide verification that current household income is under ALICE survival budget guidelines. They must also be accepted into an eligible Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) training program or building and construction trades pre-apprenticeship or registered apprenticeship program.
To learn more about qualifying for United Works, contact JTBC at (724) 728-4860, ext. 218, or www.jtbc.org.