Invest Hamilton County expands InvestOnward workforce initiative

Invest Hamilton County continues to drive local workforce development solutions by expanding career pathway development, training, and resources for people in recovery, with mental health issues, or recently released from incarceration.

“Hamilton County is a place where people dream big. Some people need more help taking the first step forward to accomplish those dreams,” Invest Hamilton County President and CEO Mike Thibideau said. “We can’t take the step forward for them, but we can pave the road to make it easier to see a path. Our team and board are so grateful for our employer partners, training providers, and community leaders that make these paths possible, and allow us to collectively change lives.”

Not only have these initiatives had a huge impact on the community – they have also been life-changing for those involved, including program participant Tiffany Jacobs.

Jacobs participated in a program that works with these groups of people to establish career goals and enter the hospitality industry. Thanks to the program, Jacobs now works at the front desk at Fairfield Inn in Carmel – and will soon be promoted to sales manager.

Jacobs learned about the program through Aspire Indiana Health, where she participated in their sobriety and therapy programs. Historically, she’d had difficulty finding a job due to her felony background, but through the training program and working with an employment coach, Jacobs was able to find employment and overcome this hurdle.

“The program and the instructors were amazing,” Jacobs said. “They really helped me get ready for a hotel career and what to expect. The program helped me get my foot in the door to build a career where the hours and job makes me proud and able to be an independent single mom.”

The weeklong course included a training wage and Uber gift cards to ensure participants would find transportation to attend. Participants focused on customer service skills, including handling special guest requests or complaints.

“You get a certificate that looks amazing on your resume and makes you more confident going into the interview,” Jacobs said. “It really teaches you how to perfect your customer service skills. It is 100 percent worth the time.”

In 2024, Invest Hamilton County hopes to expand these programs across the county. This will include new property maintenance courses to help place participants into high-demand maintenance occupations across the community.

“We are excited for Tiffany and the new opportunities that she has to grow in her career,” said Mike Keevin, Vice President of Social Impact at Aspire Indiana Health. “Tiffany’s example is one reason that we seek partnerships like the one with Invest Hamilton County and a reason that we provide services to help those who may have some barriers to overcome. We are excited to watch Tiffany’s journey and to find the next person to follow in her footsteps.”

Along with these initiatives, InvestOnward also supports other courses and events to help underemployed populations.

An ongoing employability skills class is available to participants in partnership with Hamilton County Community Corrections. In partnership with Ivy Tech Hamilton County and the Hamilton County Jail, an education empowerment class will launch in August, and participants can also receive credit from Ivy Tech Community College. Jail Job and Resource Fairs, in partnership with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and TOWER Re-Entry Program, allow soon-to-be-released individuals to connect with potential employers. The next Jail Job and Resource Fair will take place on Aug. 23.

Click here to learn more about these initiatives.

Funding for these programs comes from Hamilton County, Hamilton County Tourism, Hamilton County Community Foundation and Invest Hamilton County. Community partners for Invest Onward include the Hamilton County Sheriff’s TOWER program, Hamilton County Community Corrections, Aspire Indiana Health, and the Hamilton County Township Trustees.

About Invest Hamilton County
Invest Hamilton County, an economic development corporation, is committed to enhancing the economic prosperity of the county. Invest Hamilton County focuses on attracting, retaining, and developing talent while improving the quality of life for local residents. Through strategic partnerships with businesses, schools, and community organizations, Invest Hamilton County addresses barriers to economic growth and create opportunities for everyone to thrive. Discover more at InvestHamiltonCounty.com.