cblack@newsandsentinel.com
PARKERSBURG Those impacted by substance use disorder will now have better access to sustainable jobs thanks to $500,000 in funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission’s INSPIRE initiative.
For the next three years, the funds will be used to aid workforce development by putting those affected by substance abuse in contact with people who can help them re-enter the workplace.
“The impact of substance use disorders on the economy in the Mid-Ohio Valley region over the last decade has been huge. These funds can reverse that trend and get people back into the workforce,” said Carol Jackson, executive director of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Council, in a press release.
Organization helps pre-K kids
By Tim Colliver - tcolliver@aimmediamidwest.com
Claudia Miner, executive director of Waterford Upstart, speaks in this photograph.
Courtesy photo
The COVID-19 pandemic not only worsened the education situation nationwide, but also revealed how deep the technology divide is across the nation, according to Kimberly Flores, public relations manager for education non-profit Waterford.org, which is geared to help prepare 4-year-olds for kindergarten.
One of the first steps in addressing the broadband disparity that exists in the state was taken earlier in January when Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced a major undertaking to improve internet service in southern Ohio.