Join Maryland Philanthropy Network for a peer learning exchange for environmental/sustainability funders. We’re pleased to be joined by Program Officer, Deborah Philbrick of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, who will speak with us about their Climate Solutions grantmaking. The goal of this “Big Bets” portfolio is to ensure that the Earth stays well below a two-degrees Celsius temperature increase to avoid catastrophic global effects. Hear about how this international funder thinks about its approach, priorities, and what they are learning. We’ll then discuss trends and opportunities you and other funders are seeing. 

Maryland’s Department of Labor is preparing to launch the Maryland Works for Wind program, a new apprenticeship model to support the region’s growing offshore wind industry funded with $22.9 million awarded to the state through the American Rescue Plan Good Jobs Challenge grant. In partnership with leading employers—including Chesapeake Shipbuilding, Crystal Steel Fabricators, US Wind, and Orsted Offshore North America—and seven local unions, the Maryland Works for Wind program will build a training model to meet the needs of employers and local communities.  At this program, the Business Network for Offshore Wind will give an overview of Offshore Wind, what it will look like in Maryland, and the types of jobs expected to be needed. We will hear from training partner – Jane Addams Resource Corporation, and a labor representative about entry into apprenticeships that will lead to family sustaining employment in the sector.