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(Trenton, NJ – July 20, 2023) The Training and Development Institute of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) is thrilled to announce the launch of its new program, The Transformation Project. This initiative, supported by the Pathways to Recovery Grant from the NJ Department of Labor (NJDOL) is a collaborative between The AACCNJ and The JPI Group dedicated to providing workforce development training and employment services to individuals in Mercer County who have been impacted by the opioid epidemic.
The Transformation Project aims to empower and support participants by providing them with essential resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By focusing on upskilling and connecting to community-based services, the program aims to help participants engage, re-engage, or level up in the New Jersey workforce, ultimately fostering their reinvestment in themselves and their communities.
AACCNJ President and CEO John Harmon says, We are grateful for our partnership with the NJDOL in this important project and their providing the resources that has enabled our organization to devise a strategy to improve the level of readiness for many in our state. Furthermore, for the participants in this initiative, we are committed to a level of excellence in equipping them with the essential tools to support them on their Pathway to Recovery. Paul Douglas, President at JPI Group expresses his enthusiasm for this endeavor stating, "This project aligns perfectly with our mission of bridging the wealth gap, supporting underrepresented communities, and providing resources to help small and minority-owned companies grow. We are committed to ensuring that we make a positive impact on the community and the economy with this initiative. By partnering with the AACCNJ, we aim to create opportunities that will provide the necessary resources for opioid-impacted communities in Mercer County." Vivian Harmon, Sr. Program Director at the Training and Development Institute says: “The Transformation Project is a manifestation of AACCNJ’s investment in developing all levels of a fair, equitable, and accessible economic ecosystem in New Jersey with its most vulnerable citizens at its center. Our work will be evidence of how powerful collaboration and intentional efforts to outreach to our communities can combat systemic barriers for Mercer County citizens.
Iyomakha Douglas, CEO at JPI, further emphasizes the significance of this project, stating, "We firmly believe that gainful employment plays a crucial role in rebuilding lives, fostering resilience, and creating pathways towards a brighter future. With that in mind, we have developed a comprehensive plan that combines placement, mentorship, and ongoing support to empower participants to achieve employment and long-term success. We are particularly excited about leveraging Career Equity's Workforce Development (WFD) platform, as it will provide us with access to critical data and resources needed to ensure the success of the program. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the AACCNJ and look forward to working together to create positive change”.
Through the Transformation Project, participants will have access to a range of resources and support services tailored to their specific needs.
Key features of The Transformation Project include:
1. Upskilling and Training: The program will offer targeted training programs to enhance participants' skills and knowledge, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed in the job market and advance in their careers.
2. Community-Based Services: Collaborating with community partners, The Transformation Project will connect individuals with crucial support services, such as counseling, healthcare, and housing assistance, to address their holistic needs.
3. Workforce Integration: The program will facilitate connections between participants and potential employers, assisting with job placement and providing ongoing support to ensure successful integration into the New Jersey workforce.
4. Personal and Professional Development: The Transformation Project will empower individuals to develop their personal and professional potential through mentoring, coaching, and access to networking opportunities.
AACCNJ invites individuals in Mercer County who have been impacted by the opioid crisis to participate in The Transformation Project. By joining this initiative, individuals will gain access to a supportive community, tailored resources, and pathways towards self-reinvestment and professional growth.
For more information about The Transformation Project and how to get involved, please visit www.aaccnj.com/tdi or contact program staff at tdi@aaccnj.com. Individuals interested in receiving services beginning can apply online at: https://forms.gle/2YHDsUvzMVChYoKn8.
About the African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ
About African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, The AACCNJ performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The Chamber serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c) 3 tax exemption, which is shared by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.
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