Island Harvest Food Bank marked a milestone honoring ten students graduating from the tenth cohort of its Workforce Skills Development Institute – a program that equips residents facing employment barriers with in-demand skills and certifications.
Launched in January 2023, the Workforce Skills Development Institute equips unemployed, underemployed, or under-skilled individuals with in-demand competencies to compete in today’s job market and achieve greater financial stability.
To date, 97 students completed the program which focuses on warehousing and inventory control with an impressive average employment rate among graduates of 74 percent.
“In tackling hunger, we must do more than provide food—we must provide pathways,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, President & CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank. “Food assistance is critical, but it is a short-term intervention in a long-term public health crisis. Programs like our Workforce Skills Development Institute help break the systemic cycle of food insecurity by empowering people with the skills to secure stable employment and build a stronger future.”
The Workforce Skills Development Institute provides a comprehensive curriculum with training and certifications in technical warehousing, inventory control, and workplace soft skills. Graduates earn six industry-recognized credentials, preparing them to enter the workforce with both technical proficiency and essential employability skills.
To reduce barriers and support success, the program offers stipends for attendance and transportation, weekly career coaching, and one full year of post-graduation support. These services play a vital role in student retention—helping this class, like the class before it, achieve a 100% completion rate.
“Our work stands at the crossroads of economic prosperity, social equity, and community growth, and it is with this purpose that we approach the training and development of our students,” stated Maria Arianas, Chief Workforce Development Officer.
“I know that we are all very grateful for the amazing opportunity given to us; the skills we’ve obtained, the friendships, professional relationships we’ve all gained, the experience and unforgettable memories, stated Devon Morgan, one of the graduates who made a commencement address. “We also thank the instructors who came and took their time every week, stayed patient with us, and wanted to see all of us succeed. Thank you for all the hard work you put into us. The confidence you’ve instilled in us will stay for a lifetime.”