The YWCA of Greater Milwaukee and the New Hope Project agreed on terms of a merger. Under the terms of the merger, the New Hope Project will maintain its brand and program model under the YWCA’s ownership.
Both organizations provide services that help low-income individuals find meaningful employment. Through the merger, the YWCA will expand its workforce development services to include transitional jobs.
"This is an exciting move for us," said Paula Penebaker, president and chief executive officer of the YWCA of Greater Milwaukee. "The merger allows us to grow our service offering in a manner that is consistent with our mission and provides much needed support to the community."
"We are extremely pleased with the prospect of long-term stability for our proven program model," said Pat Hall, The New Hope Project board chair.
As subsidized positions, transitional jobs provide short-term, wage-paying employment for individuals who face barriers such as low education, limited or no work experience, or a criminal record. Individuals in the transitional jobs program receive case management and supportive services in addition to valuable work experience and the earned income tax credit. Transitional jobs are a beneficial way to address the shortage of job openings, especially in the current economic downturn, and to support the many unemployed individuals whose unemployment payments have run out.
