Baltimore City and Baltimore County to recognize four
organizations for innovative approaches to 
workforce development
1st Deputy Mayor Andrew Frank and Chairman of the Baltimore County Council Joseph Bartenfelder to address business leaders at third annual event highlighting region’s winning organizations

What: Third Annual Baltimore Regional Employer Institute Awards Breakfast

When: Tuesday, November 10, 2009
            7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Where: Morgan State University Student Center 
             Calvin and Tina Tyler Ballroom
             1700 East Coldspring Lane 
             Baltimore, Maryland

Background:

The Baltimore Workforce Investment Board (BWIB) and Baltimore County Workforce Development Council (BCWDC) will congratulate the recipients of the Baltimore Regional Employer Institute Awards during the third annual gathering of regional business leaders. Awards are being presented to area businesses and organizations that exemplify innovative approaches to workforce development. Winners below were selected from nominations received in the following four categories:

Creating Success in a Challenged Economy – Sinai Hospital of Baltimore is targeting entry-level workers with the “Freedom to Learn” campaign, which offers these employees free academic preparation and job training opportunities scheduled at convenient locations and times, supported by pay incentives and coaching services.

Overcoming Barriers to Employment and Retention – Good Samaritan Hospital operates the “1st Span” program – a work-based learning program that combines class work, career coaching, peer mentoring and work-based learning to help low-skilled workers become certified nursing assistants, and progress into higher-paying patient care jobs.

Competitive Advantage – Genesis HealthCare is working to alleviate the shortage of allied health professionals by offering incumbent workers the chance to build on their skills and advance in the healthcare industry. By offering job readiness training, certified nursing assistant training, on-site certified medication assistant training, and tuition assistance, Genesis is giving its employees the chance to grow professionally.

Preparing Youth for the 21st Century Workplace – Uptown Press is helping young people realize success in the printing industry. The company works closely with state, regional and local-level Career and Technical Education programs to ensure that students are receiving top-quality professional preparation. Uptown Press leverages resources to overcome unforeseen barriers and works with students and businesses to connect youth with valuable internship opportunities.