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Council approves $140,172 BOLD grant to The Link (Bridge International) for workforce training
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Summary
Birmingham approved a 12-month BOLD award of $140,172.16 to Bridge International's The Link to deliver VR-enhanced workforce training serving about 80 participants, with partnerships for hands-on placements and stipends; councilors asked for union and local partner connections.
The Birmingham City Council on Dec. 9 approved a BOLD program agreement with Bridge International (The Link Birmingham) for up to $140,172.16 over 12 months to provide workforce development, career exploration and job placement services for displaced and disadvantaged residents.
Moe Shorts, senior program manager in the Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity and a BOLD project lead, said the city's BOLD program has invested in 57 partners over seven years and that the Link's BOLD award will serve approximately 80 participants from the Eastlake area. The program will offer virtual-reality simulations (MediQuest goggles), stackable credentials, OSHA and NAEP certifications and connections to local employers for placement opportunities. Shorts described the award amount and a leveraged contribution ($62,043.04) included in the submission.
A representative of The Link told the council the primary facility is at 525 Huffman Road near Huffman Middle School and that the standard class runs 12 weeks. "We will partner with employers and unions to provide hands-on training where needed," the representative said, noting partnerships with AIDT, Jefferson State and the Home Builders Association of Alabama for certificate pathways and placements. The Link also said it will provide stipends and outreach support, with program details and budget breakdowns submitted to the BOLD grant team.
Council members pressed for strong connections to trade unions and local job-placement partners and encouraged The Link to work with community groups that serve justice-involved residents. The Link representative said the program can be tailored to employer needs and that additional supports such as transportation and childcare stipends will be provided when appropriate.
The council voted to approve the agreement; staff said program enrollment and outreach information will be available in January.
