UpSkill Miami: Transforming Miami-Dade’s Workforce
On Thursday, July 27, 2023, United Way Miami proudly marked a significant milestone during a press conference with the launch of UpSkill Miami – a transformative fund focusing on workforce development initiatives. The event gathered more than 90 esteemed individuals, including dignitaries, representatives from the Office of the Mayor of Miami-Dade County and key community partners, to celebrate this transformative fund’s unveiling.
What set this launch event apart was the enthusiastic participation of CEOs and executives from some of the region’s most prominent organizations, who stood united as valued partners of the first phase of UpSkill Miami. Notable leaders like Bo Boulenger, CEO of Baptist Health; Carlos A. Migoya, CEO of Jackson Health System; Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College; Charles Hodges, President of Education and Training Division of The CDL School; and Michelle Barton King, Chairperson of the Board of United HomeCare, lent their influential voices to UpSkill Miami, amplifying the collective impact of the initiative. United Way is confidently leading the charge and forging powerful partnerships with some of the largest employers in our region.
UpSkill Miami is poised to redefine the trajectory of Miami-Dade County residents, enabling them to upskill and secure employment in industry-leading fields. Serving as a vital bridge between education and employment, this initiative epitomizes the strength of collaboration for lasting change. The recently released ALICE Report underscores the urgent need for such a transformation. The data shows the number of Miami-Dade County households unable to afford the basics has grown to nearly half a million. The report also establishes the Household Survival Budget at $76,284, the estimated minimum cost for a family of four to live and work in the county. However, the current median household income in Miami-Dade is only $59,044, highlighting the disparity between living expenses and actual earnings. Combining those findings with the complex issues the community is currently facing – an inflated economy, a lack of skilled workers and widening wage gaps – now is the time for collaboration through a strategic approach. UpSkill Miami is more than just a fund; it is a catalyst for economic mobility, creating a resounding impact for future generations.
In its initial phase, 500 students are expected to join the ranks of those United Way Miami has helped to grow and succeed. After initial investments of more than $2.5 million in the healthcare and transportation/CDL industries, United Way will assess opportunities in energy and construction trades.
The launch of UpSkill Miami wouldn’t have been possible without the collective efforts of countless individuals. The ongoing support of partners, stakeholders and champions of United Way’s mission remains pivotal in carrying out this vital work.
Whether you’re a potential donor looking to invest in transforming lives, an employer or training provider seeking meaningful partnerships or a resident interested in exploring UpSkill Miami’s opportunities, we invite you to get involved. To learn more, visit unitedwaymiami.org/UpSkillMiami.
Check out the photos from the press conference here. Additionally, delve into a captivating article by the Miami Herald about UpSkill Miami here.
