United Way Northwest to expand Level Up program
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The Jasper Newton Foundation Inc. and the Second Chance Fund are investing $375,000 over the next three years to expand United Way Northwest Indiana’s Level Up and community navigator services to Jasper and Newton counties. The organizations say the funding will be used to implement program personnel within each county.
The 12-18 month program provides access to community resources, support and training for a variety of soft skills, financial literacy, trades and certifications, and employment, among others.
“In Northwest Indiana, 1 in 3 households can’t afford basic needs such as childcare, housing, food and transportation,” said Adam O’Doherty, CEO of United Way Northwest Indiana. “We’re working to expand our services to meet residents where they are at.”
Level Up aims to help working residents who are struggling financially by providing tailored, one-on-one financial education and career support.
“We’re really excited about this partnership opportunity to bring Level Up to the residents of Jasper and Newton counties,” said Brienne Hooker, executive director of Jasper Newton Foundation. “We need great partners like United Way to help our residents break barriers and thrive. Funding through the Second Chance Fund, established by one of our generous donors, will sustain this critical support opportunity for residents in both counties to realize their potential, obtain necessary training and education, and then launch into the next part of their lives.”
United Way Northwest Indiana serves Jasper, Lake, Newton, Porter and Starke counties. By the end of 2025, the nonprofit hopes to have 1,000 Level Up graduates from across the region.
To join the program, residents are required to be working, live in one of the above-mentioned counties, have reliable transportation, and meet the minimum income requirements. You can connect to more information about the program and apply by clicking here.