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.

Maryland Philanthropy Network’s Community Investment Affinity Group is pleased to host Alice Kennedy, Commissioner of Baltimore City’s Department of Housing and Community Development for a conversation about the Department’s work to improve the quality of life for all Baltimore City residents by revitalizing and redeveloping communities and promoting access to quality affordable housing opportunities in safe, livable neighborhoods. We’ll hear the status of DHCD's aspirational and comprehensive Framework for Community Development, various approaches to address residential vacant properties and the availability of quality affordable housing. We’ll also discuss the role that funders could play in addressing the issue of neighborhoods impacted by high levels of vacancy and disinvestment.