The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) announces the addition of Gene Bouie, Executive Director, and Vivian D. Harmon, M.Ed., MSW, LSW, Senior Director, to lead the Training and Development Institute of the AACCNJ.
As an Eligible Training Provider for the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development, the AACCNJ provides enrichment and job readiness training for unemployed workers who are planning to enter/reenter the workforce. The type of trainings performed varies depending upon the needs of the employers and/or the individuals.
The AACCNJ has partnered with community colleges within and outside of Mercer County, i.e. Rowan and Rutgers Universities to provide customized or specialized training. The organization is constantly growing and expanding by engaging corporations, building capacity and sustainability, creating strategic alliances, delivering value, maintaining its competitiveness, and emphasizing profitability for its members. New Jersey’s motto “Together we are Stronger” are not just words to the AACCNJ, it’s a driving force that has become a central part of the culture of the organization.
"This new division of the AACCNJ will be used as a vehicle to strengthen underperforming sectors of our society by connecting men and women with the tools and support required to prepare and position them to compete equitably in New Jersey’s economy", said John E. Harmon, Sr., IOM, Founder, President & CEO, AACCNJ. "Moreover, we seek to leverage our relationships with government and corporations in creating a talent pool to address workforce needs and build career pathways for mutual success".
"The AACCNJ has excelled at meeting the needs of minority-owned businesses to become more visible and viable in our state,” said Senator Shirley K. Turner (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “I trust that the Training and Development Institute will help to start and grow more businesses and increase entrepreneurship in minority communities. With the added component of providing essential job training and workforce development, more opportunities will also be created for unemployed and underemployed workers. The investment in this program will help to drive economic growth and job creation where it’s most needed".
"I am so very proud and honored to join the amazing team at the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey in service of our community", said Gene Bouie, Executive Director, Training and Development Institute, AACCNJ. "Our work will be the bridge out of poverty and hopelessness for those that desire to live more productive lives. The Training & Development Institute will provide pathways for many unemployed, and under-employed members of the workforce in New Jersey".
n a central part of the culture of the organization
"I am honored and delighted to join the team at the AACCNJ in their efforts to change the trajectories of disenfranchised New Jersey residents", said Vivian D. Harmon, Senior Director, Training and Development Institute, AACCNJ. "Our execution of evidence-based and best practices in training and workforce development will empower individuals and communities to achieve higher levels of self sufficiency that compliments the development of a stronger and equitable New Jersey".
