Breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty starts by addressing families’ basic needs for safety and survival, while equipping them with the tools they need to improve their circumstances.  Investing in the fundamentals of human capital, such as shelter, proper nutrition, and educational support, is key to shifting these cycles.

Several barriers can challenge individuals transitioning from incarceration towards a fresh start, but education can set them on a steady path towards success. Statistics show that about 27% of formerly incarcerated individuals are unemployed, about 5 times the national unemployment rate. Many lack access to workforce development and essential skills training, making it difficult to re-enter society which often leads to recidivism: the tendency to return to prison once released. To truly break this cycle, justice-involved individuals need the confidence and resources that will equip them long-term.

In today’s constantly evolving job market, upskilling and reskilling have become essential strategies for both employees and employers. Workers who continuously develop their skills are better positioned to take on advanced roles and responsibilities, leading to higher job satisfaction and potential salary increases. Furthermore, the ability to adapt and learn new skills can significantly boost an individual’s confidence and professional resilience in the face of industry disruptions.

Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB) enhanced its deployment of its Summer Youth Employment Program using Metrix Learning resources to energize young workers with incentivized online learning and career readiness support.

As the pandemic pummeled Pennsylvania’s state employment rate, leaders quickly realized that silver linings were buried deep in the economic chaos and uncertainty. In collaboration with Metrix Learning, Pennsylvania executed a multi-pronged approach to address the lapses in equity, digital literacy, and employment with a malleable upskilling platform that continues to shape the progress of the Pennsylvania workforce and economy today.

Hidden behind the bars of correctional facilities are glimmers of solutions that can reform patterns of recidivism while expanding the workforce talent pool. Metrix Learning deploys resources to rehabilitate justice-impacted individuals with a tailored virtual education plan.

Metrix Learning is pleased to announce Workforce180 is joining our portfolio of workforce solutions at Certus.

“Workforce180 is proud and excited to join Certus and Metrix Learning,” said Mike Fazio, CEO and Co-Founder of Workforce180. Jerry Mattiace, COO and Co-Founder of Workforce180 added, “This partnership makes us the most comprehensive online suite of learning for both participants and workforce professionals.”

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has launched SkillUp New Jersey, a free virtual training program to help jobseekers upgrade their skills and train for certifications.

The SkillUpAmerica program prepares the community for advanced employment opportunities, not only in Lancaster but statewide, joining seventeen other states in offering thousands of free courses to Pennsylvanians. It’s a chance for job-seekers to gain new skills or brush up on old ones. The program has been around in Lancaster County for four years and has had tremendous success, so it expanded statewide this summer.

Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Secretary Jennifer Berrier today reminded Pennsylvania job seekers of the free services available through SkillUp™ PA, a virtual learning platform offering more than 5,000 unique training modules to help Pennsylvanians gain new skills, polish their resume, and advance their careers.