GLENVIEW – State Senator Laura Fine joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to announce $15 million in funding for the Job Training and Economic Development program, including more than $366,000 for the Youth Job Center in Evanston.

“The JTED program is a reflection of the plans we have to support underrepresented and unemployed individuals in the workforce so all Illinoisans have access to the tools they need to succeed in their professional and personal lives,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “I am pleased to see funding benefit the Youth Job Center in my district, and I look forward to expanding workforce possibilities for all.”

This is the second round of funding from the JTED program, awarding over $15 million to 33 organizations across Illinois. The Job Training and Economic Development program provides workforce training and wraparound services to help bolster equitable workforce recovery for Illinoisans struggling to gain meaningful employment. Funds from this program aim to address the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented who have one or more barriers to employment that are identified as risk factors.

“The continued success of the JTED program is a testament to the importance of intentional investments in Illinois’ world-class workforce,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “This funding will support services to underemployed, unemployed and underrepresented communities and provide individuals access to good paying job opportunities.”