National Urban League's Growth Opportunities Program is funded by the Department of Labor to provide r
esources to justice system-involved youth and young adults ages 18-24 who live in communities that experience high instances of violent crime. 

The program features wrap-around social services, including expungement, violence prevention workshops,
occupational skills training, and placement into work experiences such as internships, apprenticeships, and part-time and full-time employment.

U.S. Department of Labor Awards $47M to
Growth Opportunities Funding

In July of 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor awarded nearly $47 million in grants to 14 recipient organizations aimed at overcoming structural barriers and improving job access for young people aged 15 to 24, especially those impacted by violence, crime, and poverty. The grants will fund programs that provide jobs, skills training and supportive services like leadership development, and mentoring, as part of the Reentry Employment Opportunities program. These efforts, authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, focus on preparing justice-involved youth for success in the workforce, with an emphasis on conflict resolution and foundational skill development.

Read the News Release 

58

Enrolled Participants 

16

Placed in Jobs

34

Participants in Occupational Skills Training

  • Buffalo Urban League
  • Chicago Urban League
  • Urban League of Metro St. Louis
  • Urban League of Central Carolinas
  • Urban League of the River Valley
  • Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City