Software and workforce development training will be implemented by three local non-profits partners: 100 Black Men of Jacksonville, Inc., I am a STAR Foundation Inc., and Goodwill Industries of North Florida, Inc. The program will serve 100 youth in a state-of-the-art software development center and will focus on Science and Math exploration for students along with leadership training. The 100 Stars Community Center, a City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation site, was built specifically for this youth development program in 2021. Kids Hope Alliance and partners are hosting a ribbon cutting event at the center on February 11^th at 3:00 p.m. to inaugurate its opening.
 
Kids Hope Alliance is pleased to receive this substantial grant award and partner with local non-profit organizations in providing hands-on training in software development. Participating youth will be well-prepared to be placed in highly sought-after internships, leading to high paid technology careers. The local employment opportunities in the STEM field are growing exponentially and the business community is looking for a pipeline of qualified employees. Companies such as Miller Electric, CSI, and Florida Blue have collectively committed to hiring certified and qualified youth from this program.  These types of public/private partnerships provide youth with hope of securing a future in the growing economy of STEM.
 
KHA is grateful to the City of Jacksonville, Parks and Recreation, Florida Department of Education, 100 Black Men, I’m a Star, Goodwill, Miller Electric, CSI, Florida Blue, and Logitech for their contributions and commitment to this exciting endeavor. By equipping our youth with these critical skills, we know that this work will have an impact on generations to come.