Penn Station Partners Becomes Project JumpStart Industry Partner

Penn Station Partners today announced it has entered into an agreement with the Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Baltimore (ABCGB) and the Living Classrooms Foundation to become a Project JumpStart Industry Partner. Project JumpStart is widely recognized as one of the most successful workforce development and job placement programs in the state. 

Together, ABCGB and Living Classrooms have created a new phase of Project JumpStart called Project JumpStart Community Partners, the goal of which is to expand the program’s reach and capabilities in order to help more individuals establish a career in the construction industry and the many trades and sectors that support it.

“We are thrilled to become a Project JumpStart Industry Partner and to be part of their impressive track record of success,” said Bill Struever, CEO of Cross Street Partners. “Amtrak and Penn Station Partners take our commitment to Baltimore City and the communities around Penn Station very seriously. This new partnership will allow us to continue building on that commitment and support programs that have a clear benefit to the City and its residents.”

The agreement includes financial support of Project JumpStart by the Penn Station redevelopment that will fund an initial class of 20-22 students, with the goal of continuing the investment each year. Students who complete the program may also have the opportunity to be placed into Penn Station redevelopment projects or subprojects.

Under the agreement, Living Classrooms Foundation will provide Project JumpStart program recruitment and other “wraparound support” services in the communities surrounding Penn Station, such as individual skills assessment, case management, and outreach to local community organizations.

“The mission of Project JumpStart has remained consistent over our 15 year history, during which time we have seen hundreds of Baltimore residents graduate and get placed in good jobs with local builders, graduate from apprenticeship programs, and grow in their careers,” said James Stewart, Executive Director of Project JumpStart. “We are committed to addressing our city’s equity and economic disparities while also providing a viable source of job ready candidates for in-demand careers. We are very grateful to be a part of the transformation of Penn Station, and excited about this partnership that will surely have a positive, direct, and lasting impact on Baltimore City residents.”