Madison Reporter

The Urban League of Greater Madison (ULGM) recently announced the expansion of its training programs for CDL and solar installation.

The announcement follows a grant of $250,000 from the Ascendium Education Group (AEG) to the League to aid in expanding access to training, according to Channel 3000.

“We’ve long admired the Urban League of Greater Madison’s efforts to increase socioeconomic mobility in our community," Ascendium VP Amy Kerwin said, according to Channel 3000. "We’re pleased to be able to contribute resources that help them expand access to such opportunities.”

The League also hopes to help at least 100 unemployed or underemployed adults find new or better jobs by 2024, according to Channel 3000.

“Employers across the region are facing a shortage of CDL drivers for existing jobs,” Urban League President and CEO Dr. Ruben Anthony Jr. said, according to Channel 3000. “These funds from Ascendium will help us serve as a bridge between employers and job seekers and ensure equitable access to these good careers.”

The Ascendium Education Group is an employee giving program that focuses on making a difference in the community. The organization provides Good Neighbor Grants up to $15,000 given to local nonprofits. AEG also provides opportunities for volunteer time off so that employees may be paid by the organization to take time off of work and get involved in their community.

"We believe in making an impact," AEG officials said. "That doesn’t just apply to our work with borrowers, our education philanthropy or the student success solutions we develop for colleges. We are also committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work through our employee giving program, Ascendium Cares."

The Urban League of Greater Madison works to educate, employ and empower people of color in the community, according to the organization's website.

"The mission of the Urban League of Greater Madison is to ensure that African Americans and other community members are educated, employed and empowered to live well, advance professionally and contribute to the common good in the 21st Century," ULGM officials said.