The Massachusetts Gaming Commission voted in favor of giving $1.5 million toward workforce development, comprising of two grants of $750,000 each to workforce development programs of the Metro North Workforce Board and Holyoke Community College’s Adult Education.
The grants will provide training and work-skill development opportunities for prospective employees from communities surrounding MGM Springfield and Encore Harbor Boston. The money is part of the Community Mitigation Fund, which was created as part of the MGC’s legislation that promotes job creation and growth in local communities.
“The grants that have been awarded from the Community Mitigation Fund to these important workforce development initiatives will empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue rewarding career opportunities,” Interim MGC Chair Jordan Maynard said in a press release., adding that the fund “serves a vital role at the MGC and throughout the Commonwealth, providing robust, tangible impacts for citizens and communities across Massachusetts.”
“We are appreciative of the Mass Gaming Commission and Encore Boston Harbor for their continued partnership, and we look forward to helping residents across the Metro Boston region connect with and prepare for high-quality gaming and hospitality careers,” MassHire Metro North Workforce President and CEO Chris Albrizio-Lee said.
“The support of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, through the Community Mitigation Fund, has enabled Holyoke Community College to provide training for critical Line Cook positions at MGM Resorts Springfield and other regional employers,” said Kermit Dunkelberg, assistant vice president of adult education at Holyoke Community College.
Since 2015, the MGC has contributed close to $48 million to community projects in the state, including workforce development, transportation, community planning and public safety.
