Sharon Closius, VCF President and CEO.
The Valley Community Foundation was presented with The Philanthropic Leadership Award from The WorkPlace Inc. at its 2017 WorkPlace Annual Awards Ceremony, held June 29, 2017 at Bridgeport’s Downtown Cabaret Theatre.
The WorkPlace recognized the Valley Community Foundation (VCF) for its “support of life-long learning, advocacy for programs serving low-income areas and commitment to innovative programming,” including the $180,000 VCF granted to The WorkPlace for various initiatives such as WorkPlace Scholarships, Platform to Employment, Incumbent Worker Training and operating support for its American Job Centers in the Valley.
“On behalf of the Valley Community Foundation and its Board of Directors, it is an honor to be recognized by such an incredible organization,” said Sharon Closius, VCF President and CEO. “We are a proud partner in supporting The WorkPlace’s commitment to impactful workforce programs and share a similar vision in improving the well-being of the communities we serve.”
The Foundation recently completed important work on the Valley Community Index: Understanding the Valley Region (2016), a comprehensive report analyzing the economy, health and quality of life in the Valley region.
It is a valuable tool to shine a light on the region’s strengths and areas of vulnerability.
Prior recipients of The Philanthropic Leadership Award have included People’s United Community Foundation; TD Charitable Foundation; XEROX Foundation; and Newman’s Own Foundation.
The Annual Awards Ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of outstanding students, graduates, employers, volunteers and professionals from programs that The WorkPlace administers.
The intent is to recognize those who may otherwise go unrecognized: individuals who have graduated from WorkPlace programs and serve as positive role models; employers and businesses that support its efforts to promote diversity and life-long learning; and volunteers and professionals who motivate and empower its clients.
WorkPlace Inc. is one of five Workforce Development Boards in Connecticut, which prepares people for careers and strengthens the workforce for employers.
It does so by administering workforce development funds and coordinating providers of job training and education programs, while acting as a convener, catalyst, collaborator and advocate for workforce development throughout the region, state and nation.
