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Civic Hall Partners with CompTIA to Launch Introductory IT Course, Creating an Entry Point to the Tech Sector

Civic Hall Partners with CompTIA to Launch Introductory IT Course, Creating an Entry Point to the Tech Sector

New York, NY [March 1, 2024]— Civic Hall is excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive Introduction to IT program, designed to provide foundational training in information technology. In collaboration with CompTIA, Civic Hall’s new program will equip individuals with essential basic IT knowledge and skills through the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ certification. The program also includes financial literacy to enhance overall professional development.

 

Enrolled individuals will have the opportunity to undergo a free benefits screening through Single Stop, the nation’s leading online platform. In 2023 alone, Single Stop helped secure half a billion dollars in benefits for families.

 

“Civic Hall emphasizes inclusivity by targeting underserved students and older adults seeking career changes. By offering this introductory IT program, coupled with financial literacy and benefits screening, Civic Hall ensures that each student receives the necessary support for success,” said Jim Malatras, Chief Strategy Officer & Senior VP for Education, The Fedcap Group—the parent organization of Civic Hall. “We thank CompTIA for this important partnership to diversify the tech industry.”

 

“Digital fluency skills are essential in today’s workplace, not just for technology workers but for anyone who relies on tech to do their job,” said Kirk Smallwood, senior vice president, industry engagement, CompTIA. “We are delighted to team with Civic Hall on this transformative initiative to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career.”

 

Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will be eligible to participate in further career building opportunities such as exclusive job fairs and professional mentoring by established tech sector members at Civic Hall, including the New York Tech Alliance.  Additionally, graduates of the program will be well-prepared for advanced Civic Hall tech trainings and offerings. Specifically, the Introduction to IT program was developed to be a pathway to LaGuardia Community College’s Computer and Network Service Technician Certificate Program at Civic Hall.

 

“LaGuardia Community College is pleased to collaborate with Civic Hall, offering an additional pathway for program graduates to pursue our Computer and Network Service Technician Certificate Program,” said Sunil Gupta Vice President, for the Division of Adult Continuing Education & Workforce Development, LaGuardia Community College (CUNY). “This collaboration reflects our commitment to providing accessible and quality education to individuals looking to enter the tech sector.”

 

The Introductory IT Course will be facilitated by experienced instructors from Civic Hall. For more information, visit www.civichall.org. The program will start in May 2024.  

 

ABOUT CIVIC HALL

Civic Hall is a member of The Fedcap Group. Civic Hall’s mission is to support and enable best-in-class programs that help close the digital skills divide and plan for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Civic Hall will facilitate groundbreaking partnerships among high-impact tenants, civic and social innovators, workforce training partners, and NYC’s diverse employer ecosystem to work collectively to meet the educational and professional needs of all New Yorkers, especially those from communities too often left behind. For more information about membership opportunities, please visit civichall.org. 

 

For media inquiries or more information, contact:

Josh Vlasto, for The Fedcap Group/Civic Hall (josh@joshvlasto.com)

 

 

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Dr. Yaara Shimshoni Appointed Senior Research Fellow at Fedcap’s Community Impact Policy Institute

Dr. Yaara Shimshoni Appointed Senior Research Fellow at Fedcap’s Community Impact Policy Institute


New York, NY –The Community Impact Policy Institute—the thinktank and research arm of The Fedcap Group—has appointed Dr. Yaara Shimshoni Senior Research Fellow.

 

Dr. Shimshoni, a clinical psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at the prestigious Yale School of Medicine, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role the Community Impact Policy Institute. Her research and clinical work focus on the treatment of anxious children and their parents, making her a valuable addition to The Fedcap Group’s research initiatives.

 

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Yaara Shimshoni to the Community Impact Policy Institute. Her extensive experience, research contributions, and dedication to improving the lives of children and families will undoubtedly enhance our research initiatives and further solidify our commitment to evidence-based practices that unlock the door to economic well-being,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of  The Fedcap Group.

 

At the Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Shimshoni actively participates in federally funded research projects and collaborates closely with Dr. Eli Lebowitz, the co-director of the anxiety and mood disorders program and the developer of the innovative SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) program, a parent-based treatment program for children and adolescents with anxiety, OCD, and related issues. Dr. Shimshoni has not only been instrumental in applying and disseminating the program but has also played a vital role in treating anxious children and their parents. Her expertise extends to teaching and supervising clinicians in the implementation of SPACE.

 

In addition to her contributions to the field of anxiety and mood disorders, Dr. Shimshoni has published numerous peer-reviewed papers on the topic. Together with Dr. Lebowitz, she spearheaded the development of an application of SPACE to clinical picky eating and served as the lead investigator on a pilot study exploring the treatment. This project showcases the versatility and applicability of the program across various challenges faced by children and adolescents.

 

“I am excited to join The Fedcap Group’s Community Impact Policy Institute and contribute to its mission and look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance the research initiatives and advance policies that positively impact barriered communities,” said Dr. Yaara Shimshoni.

 

Dr. Shimshoni’s appointment represents a significant milestone for The Fedcap Group’s Community Impact Policy Institute, underscoring its ongoing commitment to advancing research and policies that positively impact communities and individuals facing barriers to economic well-being.

 

About the Community Impact Policy Institute

The Community Impact Policy Institute is the thinktank and research arm of The Fedcap Group, conducting leading research to provide solutions in breaking down barriers to economic well-being. The Institute, and its partners, have conducted groundbreaking analysis and solutions to many pressing needs including building wage and wealth for disadvantaged communities, effects of minimum wage increases, early childhood education, employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, socially responsible investing, immigration and its impact on the economy, and more. The Community Impact Policy Institute also provides technical assistance and training, products and hands on support to government agencies and community-based providers working to change their delivery of services and enhance the community integration of people with individuals with barriers to employment.

 

Media Contacts:

Jim Malatras, Director of the Community Impact Policy Institute, (JMalatras@fedcap.org)

 

 

  

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FedcapCARES Achieves Milestone with Successful Completion of SOC 2 Type II Audit by Sensiba LLP

FedcapCARES Achieves Milestone with Successful Completion of SOC 2 Type II Audit by Sensiba LLP

New York, NY – The Fedcap Group is pleased to announce the successful completion of the System and Organization Controls (SOC) 2 Type II audit conducted by Sensiba LLP for FedcapCARES—our nation leading automated cloud-hosted software application which serves as a hub for case management, client activity and tracks attendance, employment, and job retention. This milestone, alongside our ongoing ISO 27001 certification, first achieved three years ago and renewed annually, underscores our relentless commitment to the highest standards of information security, privacy, and our dedication to safeguarding our clients’ data.  

 

The SOC 2 Type II audit is a rigorous examination of controls relevant to the trust services criteria categories, including security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. It provides a comprehensive report on the design and effectiveness of specified controls over a specific period. Fedcap has taken this important step to ensure that our systems and processes not only meet but exceed internationally recognized best practices and guardrails.

 

“We created FedcapCARES to help organizations better perform case management through state-of- the-art technology. This successful completion of the SOC 2 Type II audit reflects our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of information security in our platform,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group. “This achievement by The Fedcap Group not only aligns with industry and regulatory expectations, but also ensures the highest level of data protection for our clients most sensitive data.”


It is anticipated that SOC 2 Type II compliance will become a standard requirement in most, if not all, future contracts and renewals within the nonprofit sector. By voluntarily undergoing this audit, The Fedcap Group is not only meeting regulatory expectations but is proactively ensuring that our clients’ data is protected with the utmost care. As the landscape of digital information security evolves, SOC 2 Type II compliance is increasingly becoming a benchmark for excellence and trustworthiness.

 

About The Fedcap Group

For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative, and potentially disruptive solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. The Fedcap Group provides educational services to every age group, vocational training, and job attainment in high-growth industries, as well as support services such as behavioral health services—all targeted to helping people achieve long-term economic well-being. The Fedcap Group also invests its time and resources in broader system change—working in partnership with federal, state, and local government to improve the way services are designed, funded, and delivered.

 

Contact:

Jim Malatras, 212-727-4200, (JMalatras@fedcap.org)

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Fedcap UK and the Community Impact Policy Institute Launches the Compass Series Focused on International Strategies to Improve Health, Employability, and Economic Well-Being

Fedcap UK and the Community Impact Policy Institute Launches the Compass Series Focused on International Strategies to Improve Health, Employability, and Economic Well-Being

Compass Series Kicks Off with Leading Scottish Policymakers in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland–Fedcap UK and the Community Impact Policy Institute are excited to announce the launch of a new policy series, Fedcap Compass, dedicated to addressing the intersection of health, employability, and economic well-being. The inaugural event will take place tomorrow, February 20, 2004, in Edinburgh, Scotland, marking the beginning of a series of roundtables aimed at addressing these critical issues.

 

Daniel Johnson, Member of the Scottish Parliament, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Business, and Fair Work, will lead the roundtable with employability, health, public policy, and economic experts as distinguished chairperson. Secretary Johnson’s extensive experience and insights into the Scotland’s economic landscape makes him the ideal leader to kick off this pivotal series focused on improving health, employability, and economic well-being.

 

“We’ve launched the Fedcap Compass series to bring together key stakeholders, policymakers, and experts to engage in meaningful conversations about improving the health and economic well-being of communities,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group. “Our goal is to identify innovative solutions and actionable strategies, both in Scotland and across the globe— particularly in other Fedcap programs in the United States and Canada— that can have a lasting impact on communities.”

 

The focus of this inaugural event aligns with The Fedcap Group’s overarching mission to create positive social change through its Community Impact Policy Institute.

 

“We encourage all stakeholders, community leaders, and individuals passionate about making a difference to join us at this and future thought leadership events,” said Susan Paterson, UK Operations Director for Fedcap.  “We hope to gain a broad cross-section of perspectives and to help shape a comprehensive policy strategy for governments and other institutions.”

 

For more information about tomorrow’s event contact, Neal Smith for Fedcap UK, (Neal.Smith@fedcap.org.uk).

 

About the Community Impact Policy Institute

The Community Impact Policy Institute is a thinktank of The Fedcap Group conducting leading research to provide solutions in breaking down barriers to economic well-being. The Institute, and its partners, have conducted groundbreaking analysis and solutions to many pressing needs including building wage and wealth for disadvantaged communities, effects of minimum wage increases, early childhood education, employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, socially responsible investing, immigration and its impact on the economy, and more. The Community Impact Policy Institute also provides technical assistance and training, products and hands on support to government agencies and community-based providers working to change their delivery of services and enhance the community integration of people with individuals with barriers to employment.

 

About Fedcap UK

Fedcap UK is a member of The Fedcap Group committed to excellence and an innovative approach to improving economic and social well-being. Fedcap UK delivers employability solutions, health services, and community projects in partnership with like-minded organizations and stakeholders. This includes the delivery of the UK Government’s Restart Scheme and the Scottish Government’s Fair Start Scotland program.

 

Media Contacts:

Neal Smith for Fedcap UK, (Neal.Smith@fedcap.org.uk)

Jim Malatras for the Community Impact Policy Institute, (JMalatras@fedcap.org)

 

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Easterseals Lonestar’s Inclusive Esports Program Expands its Reach to Four Schools

Easterseals Lonestar’s Inclusive Esports Program Expands its Reach to Four Schools

More than 40 Students Participating in Inclusive Esports Competitions

Dallas, Texas (February 14, 2024) – Easterseals Lonestar announces that four schools have joined its new Esports League. The school are Navarro and Greenleaf Neurodiverse Transition School, both part of the Austin Independent School District; Cedars International Next Generation High School; and Manor New Tech High School.

 

Easterseals Lonestar launched the program to engage at-risk students of all abilities. To date, more than 40 students are participating, with additional students expected to join. Easterseals Lonestar’s esports initiative involves the formation of dedicated esports teams within each participating school, competing in tournament leagues. Currently, these teams are engaging in friendly scrimmages with counterparts in Oklahoma and New York. Beyond the competitive aspect, students enrolled in the Easterseals Lonestar esports program also benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes game design and other STEAM-related courses, fostering valuable life skills.

 

“Esports is a powerful vehicle to ignite students’ passion for STEAM by incorporating an element they genuinely enjoy. Our esports program is not only creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment but also establishing a pathway for at-risk students of all abilities to connect with peers nationwide through competitive esports, coupled with a robust STEAM curriculum. This initiative aims to unlock opportunities for these promising students within the esports and gaming industry,” said Jennifer Friesen, Vice President, Easterseals Lonestar.

 

Made possible by a generous award from the Texas Workforce Commission, the Easterseals Lonestar esports program is a one-year, $100,000 pilot initiative in collaboration with local school districts. It seeks to attract students to an eSports league that seamlessly integrates opportunities to explore STEAM careers.

 

About Easterseals Lonestar

Easterseals Lonestar represents central and north Texas. Easterseals Lonestar promotes independence and creates opportunities for people with disabilities to pursue their hopes and dreams. Easterseals Lonestar is a member of The Fedcap Group. For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable and innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. The Fedcap Group provides educational services to every age group, vocational training and job attainment in high-growth industries, as well as support services such as behavioral health services—all targeted to helping people achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

 

Media Contact:

Jim Malatras

Email: JMalatras@fedcap.org

 

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CIVIC HALL AND SOUND+SCIENCE JOIN FORCES TO EMPOWER YOUTH IN STEM EDUCATION THROUGH MUSIC

CIVIC HALL AND SOUND+SCIENCE JOIN FORCES TO EMPOWER YOUTH IN STEM EDUCATION THROUGH MUSIC

Partnership Supported by the Simons Foundation

New York, NY (February 9, 2024)— Civic Hall, a dynamic hub for innovation and education within New York City’s tech landscape, proudly announces its collaboration with Sound+Science, a groundbreaking initiative that explores the intersection of music and STEM education.

 

Located at Union Square in the state-of-the-art Zero Irving building, Civic Hall is an 85,000-square-foot training center, business incubator, and tech ecosystem with a mission to catalyze innovation, education, and collaboration, it serves as the nucleus for entrepreneurial growth, and educational innovations in NYC’s bustling tech community.

 

The Sound+Science program offers a transformative educational experience for young minds, harnessing the inherent connection between music and STEM disciplines. Divided into three distinct modules, the immersive programming provided by Sound+Science aims to impart a heightened understanding of STEM, particularly in physics and mathematics while fostering a vibrant community of collaborators and investigators that inspire one another.

 

“Through Civic Hall’s collaborative network, we are forging paths that harness technology for social impact and opportunities for barriered communities,” said Jim Malatras, Chief Strategy Officer & Senior VP for Education, The Fedcap Group—the parent organization of Civic Hall. “Thanks to Civic Hall Co-Founder’s Andrew Rasiej’s initial connection and the Simons Foundation for their incredible financial support, we are delighted to have Sound+Science’s innovative new program be an essential part of Civic Hall.”

 

Dr. Stephon H. Alexander, a renowned theoretical physicist specializing in cosmology, particle physics, and quantum gravity at Brown University, adapted Sound+Science from his book The Jazz of Physics and will lead the program as its Founder and CEO. The modules, including “The Hidden Codes in Electronic Music,” “Music Improvisation and the Evolution of Computation,” and “From Hip-Hop to AI,” ensure a comprehensive educational experience. Complementing the programming, Sound+Science will also present a speaker series focused on the intersection of music and science and featuring Sound+Science advisory board members Vin Rock from the legendary hip-hop group Naughty by Nature and Paul Miller, a conceptual artist known as DJ Spooky that Subliminal Kid.  Sound+Science addresses challenges faced by underestimated youth in accessing STEM careers, incorporating diverse features to capture attention and engage these students.

 

“Growing up in the diverse cultural tapestry of New York City’s public schools ignited my fascination with the universal language of science,” said Sound+Science Founder and CEO Dr. Alexander. “At Sound+Science, we’re channeling that same vibrant energy to inspire the next wave of curious minds. Here, music isn’t just an art form; it’s a gateway to physics, coding, and mathematics. Our mission is to tune into the potential of every student, creating a symphony of minds ready to shape the future of science and building a harmonious community of exploration.”

 

Students will participate in Masterclass Lectures by industry experts, hands-on studio labs for practical application of knowledge, and peer mentoring connecting high school students with local college STEM majors for mutual growth. Incentive-based projects challenge participants to create real-world applications resonating with musicians, producers, and coders.

 

“The Simons Foundation is committed to the idea that science is part of culture, and is proud to support Sound+Science and their work to empower New York City’s brightest young minds. By increasing access to innovative science engagement, we’re working toward a brighter future for science and society,” said John Tracey, Program Director of Science, Society and Culture at the Simons Foundation.

 

Through this collaboration, Civic Hall and Sound+Science aim to create pathways for young students to access the vast opportunities offered by STEM education. The program, commencing in March 2024, is poised to break barriers and contribute to a more inclusive and innovative society. High school students, as well as their parents, teachers, and administrators can find more information and apply to the program at soundplusscience.com or contact Jeremy Snepar, Sound+Science’s Chief Operating Officer at jeremy@soundplusscience.com.

 

ABOUT CIVIC HALL

Civic Hall is a member of The Fedcap Group. Civic Hall’s mission is to support and enable best-in-class programs that help close the digital skills divide and plan for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Civic Hall will facilitate groundbreaking partnerships among high-impact tenants, civic and social innovators, workforce training partners, and NYC’s diverse employer ecosystem to work collectively to meet the educational and professional needs of all New Yorkers, especially those from communities too often left behind. For more information about membership opportunities, please visit civichall.org. 

 

For media inquiries or more information, contact:

Josh Vlasto, for The Fedcap Group/Civic Hall (josh@joshvlasto.com)

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CIVIC HALL AND THE BUSINESS COUNCIL OF NEW YORK STATE ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

CIVIC HALL AND THE BUSINESS COUNCIL OF NEW YORK STATE ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP


New York, NY (January 31, 2024)—Civic Hall, the pioneering hub for innovation and training in New York’s tech ecosystem, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with The Business Council of New York State, the state’s foremost advocate for businesses. This collaboration solidifies Civic Hall’s role as the official NYC headquarters for The Business Council of New York State, further enhancing New York’s position as a hub for innovation and economic growth.

 

Located at Union Square in the state-of-the-art Zero Irving building, Civic Hall is an 85,000-square-foot training center, business incubator, and innovation ecosystem with a mission to catalyze innovation, education, and collaboration, it serves as the nucleus for entrepreneurial growth, and educational innovations in NYC’s bustling tech community.

 

The members of Business Council of New York State are driving economic activity and growth in the innovation and tech sector and will partner with Civic Hall to help meet workforce demand in NYC and the rest of the state. The partnership will also as well as provide business incubator opportunities for the Business Council of New York State’s members at Civic Hall’s state-of-the-art facility which is in the heart of the NYC technology ecosystem.

 

“We are proud to have partnered with Civic Hall, a highly respected organization whose goals of fostering and strengthening economic growth and a strong workforce closely align with The Business Council. This collaboration helps us better serve our current New York City members while providing an opportunity to attract new members to help strengthen our pro-business agenda,” said Heather C. Mulligan, President & CEO of the New York State Business Council, Inc.

 

“We are thrilled that the New York State Business Council has joined forces with Civic Hall—New York’s leading innovation and entrepreneurial hub. This powerful partnership will address the pressing workforce demands of the business and industry sectors, propelling sustainable economic growth throughout the state of New York,” said Jim Malatras, Chief Strategy Officer & Senior VP for Education, The Fedcap Group—the parent organization of Civic Hall.

 

ABOUT CIVIC HALL

Civic Hall is a member of The Fedcap Group. Civic Hall’s mission is to support and enable best-in-class programs that help close the digital skills divide and plan for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Civic Hall will facilitate groundbreaking partnerships among high-impact tenants, civic and social innovators, workforce training partners, and NYC’s diverse employer ecosystem to work collectively to meet the educational and professional needs of all New Yorkers, especially those from communities too often left behind.  For more information about membership opportunities, please visit civichall.org. 

 

ABOUT THE BUSINESS COUNCIL OF NEW YORK STATE

The Business Council of New York State, Inc., is the leading business organization representing the interests of large and small firms across the state. With over 3,000 member companies, local chambers of commerce, and professional associations, BCNYS advocates for a healthier business climate, economic growth, and job creation.

 

For media inquiries or more information, contact:

Josh Vlasto, for The Fedcap Group/Civic Hall (josh@joshvlasto.com)

Pat Bailey, The Business Council of New York State, Inc. (patrick.bailey@bcnys.org)

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Hospitality Pathways Joins Civic Hall to Empower Marginalized Communities Through Innovation in the Retail Cannabis Industry

Hospitality Pathways Joins Civic Hall to Empower Marginalized Communities Through Innovation in the Retail Cannabis Industry

New York, NY (January 29, 2024) —Hospitality Pathways, a leading organization dedicated to providing in-demand job skills for members of marginalized communities, has joined Civic Hall. Hospitality Pathways offers training programs that lead to sustainable employment, livable wages, and future growth opportunities within the emerging retail cannabis industry.

 

As members, Hospitality Pathways will leverage Civic Hall’s ecosystem and incubator to drive innovation to strengthen its training and employment pathways for barriered communities. Hospitality Pathways goes beyond technical skills, offering extensive soft skills training in areas such as the culture of hospitality, professionalism, teamwork, prioritizing, time management, industry terminology, work ethic, and conflict resolution. Students are provided with a stipend, a weekly unlimited MetroCard, and daily meals. Hospitality Pathways collaborates with a robust network of employer partners to help connect graduates with jobs in the field.

 

“Our partnership with Hospitality Pathways demonstrates the power of Civic Hall—plugging in a  training provider into a diverse innovation and educational ecosystem broadens opportunities within emerging workforce sectors, with a specific focus on empowering historically marginalized communities,” said Seema Shah, Executive Director of Civic Hall.

 

“Our collaboration with Civic Hall marks a strategic alliance that enables us to harness the vast innovation ecosystem they offer, unlocking the full potential of social equity within our rapidly evolving industry,” said Beatrice Stein, Founder and Program Director of Hospitality Pathways. “This partnership transcends rhetoric; it’s a commitment to tangible impact. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality training complemented by wraparound support for our students. As members of Civic Hall, we are poised to elevate our program to new heights.”

 

ABOUT CIVIC HALL

Civic Hall is a member of The Fedcap Group. Civic Hall’s mission is to support and enable best-in-class programs that help close the digital skills divide and plan for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Civic Hall will facilitate groundbreaking partnerships among high-impact tenants, civic and social innovators, workforce training partners, and NYC’s diverse employer ecosystem to work collectively to meet the educational and professional needs of all New Yorkers, especially those from communities too often left behind. For more information about membership opportunities, please visit civichall.org. 

 

ABOUT HOSPITALITY PATHWAYS

Hospitality Pathways is a pioneering organization dedicated to empowering members of marginalized communities by providing in-demand job skills and opportunities within the expanding retail cannabis industry. Through comprehensive training programs, we aim to bridge the gap and create a pathway to sustainable employment, livable wages, and future growth. Visit Hospitality Pathways for more information.

 

For media inquiries or more information, contact:

Jim Malatras, The Fedcap Group/Civic Hall (Jmalatras@fedcap.org)

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LaGuardia Community College and Apex Technical School Partner to Build Pathways for Students in the Trades Seeking College Degrees

LaGuardia Community College and Apex Technical School Partner to Build Pathways for Students in the Trades Seeking College Degrees

LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (January 25, 2024) — LaGuardia Community College/CUNY and Apex Technical School [apexschool.com] have officially entered into a partnership, marking the beginning of a collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing trades and seeking college degrees. The agreement, signed by Kenneth Adams, President of LaGuardia Community College, and Steve Markowitz, President of Apex Technical School, establishes the Apex–LaGuardia Pathway—a first phase in a longer partnership between the two institutions.
Under this partnership, LaGuardia Community College will offer two college credits to students enrolled in Apex’s Home Digital Automation (focused on energy efficiency to meet climate goals) and Robotics (technology) programs. The collaboration aims to provide students with a seamless transition from technical training to pursuing college degrees, addressing the evolving demands of today’s job market.
Apex Technical School, known for its hands-on training in the trades since 1961, has been a key contributor to equipping New Yorkers with marketable skills for employment. Licensed by the New York State Education Department, Apex Technical School sees this partnership as an opportunity to facilitate easier access to college education for its students.
“Our partnership with Apex Technical School will go a long way in supporting students obtain their college degree after they graduate,” said LaGuardia Community College President Kenneth Adams. “This is another example of how LaGuardia serves the community and helps New Yorkers with socioeconomic mobility and finding sustainable jobs.”
“Apex students will now have easier access to a college education at one of the best colleges,” said Apex Technical School President Steven Markowitz. “This partnership is creating a pathway to college and help students follow their dreams of earning their degree in an area they are passionate.”
“These are the first of a number of pathways between LaGuardia and Apex that will count for college credit,” said Sunil Gupta, Vice President for Adult Continuing Education at LaGuardia. “We hope this pathway will encourage students to explore the opportunity to enroll at LaGuardia and earn their degree.”
LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 degrees and certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to educate New Yorkers seeking new skills and careers. As an institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of underserved populations. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students while providing them with access to a high quality, affordable college education.
Apex Technical School [apexschool.com] is a member of The Fedcap Group [fedcapgroup.org]. This international nonprofit, headquartered in New York City, is dedicated to creating opportunities for people with barriers to economic well-being. The work of The Fedcap Group is structured through four major areas of practice: Education, Workforce Development, Occupational Health and Economic Development, each led by experts in the field and delivered through top-tier nonprofit agencies across our growing footprint.

Media Contacts:

Elizabeth Streich | office: (718) 482-6131; cell (347) 229-8674; estreich@lagcc.cuny.edu.
Manuel (Manny) L. Romero, Ed.D. | office: (718) 482-5061; cell: (480) 235-3366; mlromero@lagcc.cuny.edu.
Jim Malatras for Apex Technical School | 212-727-4200; JMalatras@fedcap.org.

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First Tech Fund Joins Civic Hall to Expand Opportunities in NYC’s Innovation Ecosystem to Underserved Individuals

First Tech Fund Joins Civic Hall to Expand Opportunities in NYC’s Innovation Ecosystem to Underserved Individuals

Civichall-fg
NEW YORK, NY (January 5, 2024) —Civic Hall is partnering with First Tech Fund to enhance workforce training opportunities for low-income high school students in New York City, particularly within the innovation ecosystem. This collaboration will allow the First Tech Fund to provide additional workforce development programs and pathways for high school and college-aged students across New York City.
The First Tech Fund has been at the forefront providing underserved communities educational opportunities. It has empowered over 300 high school students through its year-long fellowship program, offering mentorship, college preparation, career readiness, and pathways to future opportunities since 2020. The recent launch of the Dual Impact Internship Program, piloted in 2023, successfully placed underrepresented college-aged students in paid eight-week internships. Scaling from 2 to 20 seats in 2024, the First Tech Fund will expand its impact, supported by Civic Hall’s network and resources to meet the growing needs of its 125+ college-aged alumni.

“We are excited that the First Tech Fund team has become members of Civic Hall to provide opportunities to underserved communities to join our collaborative network that will provide bright futures in New York City’s innovation ecosystem,” said Seema Shah, Executive Director at Civic Hall.  “Our partnership will support even more students across NYC to access diverse pathways to educational and career opportunities.”

“We’ve heard constantly from our student community about the difficulties they face once they arrive to college when navigating the complex internship process and we’ve seen how transformational it can be to help students land their first meaningful work experience after their freshman year. With more companies cutting staff and making reductions in DEI programs, it’s more important now than ever to invest in this programming that is creating real systems change,” said Josue De Paz, CEO and co-founder of First Tech Fund, “We’re excited for the numerous opportunities that Civic Hall’s hub of partners and resources will open for students.”

In Spring 2024, the First Tech Fund will open applications for its free fellowship program for New York City high school students. The program offers virtual workshops, mentorship, career exploration, and networking opportunities.

About Civic Hall

Civic Hall is New York City’s tech training, innovation, and entrepreneurial hub in the heart of Union Square. Civic Hall is a member of The Fedcap Group. Civic Hall’s mission is to support and enable best-in-class programs that help close the digital skills divide and plan for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. Civic Hall will facilitate groundbreaking partnerships among high-impact tenants, civic and social innovators, workforce training partners, and NYC’s diverse employer ecosystem to work collectively to meet the educational and professional needs of all New Yorkers, especially those from communities too often left behind.  For more information about membership opportunities, please visit civichall.org.  

ABOUT FIRST TECH FUND

First Tech Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to empowering low-income high school students in identifying, navigating, and attaining academic and professional opportunities. First Tech Fund provides a supportive, adaptive ecosystem where students get access to free tech, free broadband, skills training, social capital, mentorship, and more. Follow First Tech Fund on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Contact

For media inquiries or more information, contact: Jim Malatras at JMalatras@fedcap.org.

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