KeyBank Foundation Invests $250,000 in GreenForce Training to Support Workforce Development Efforts in East Buffalo
The KeyBank Foundation is investing $250,000 in GreenForce Training to support workforce development efforts in East Buffalo. This donation from the KeyBank Foundation represents the first private investment in GreenForce Training, a job opportunity agency that will help recruit and train workers for Viridi, a start-up manufacturer that designs and builds fail-safe battery systems that will redefine energy storage, and power the transition to renewable energy. GreenForce Training is contributing to the economic health and resilience of the communities where it operates by helping people attain, navigate and sustain successful careers.
Funds from the KeyBank Foundation will help collaborative efforts by GreenForce Training and Viridi to train and hire 100 people for entry level positions, helping individuals establish a path to economic independence and spur additional neighborhood investment. Viridi expects to employ approximately 500 people on their 42-acre campus by 2024.
“The KeyBank Foundation understands the importance of investing in people and communities, and we are so thankful that they see and support the significant impact GreenForce Training and Viridi can make in East Buffalo,” said GreenForce Training Executive Director Jeffrey M. Conrad. “Education and employment are transformational for an individual, their family and the community, and GreenForce Training is committed to impacting each through our work. We are developing the workforce of the future right here in East Buffalo and it’s very exciting.”
“Greenforce Training and Viridi are bringing hope and opportunity to East Buffalo by providing the community with jobs and the potential to grow in the emerging, developing field of green energy,” said Michael McMahon, KeyBank Buffalo Market President. “We are proud to invest in and support the work they are doing that is helping revitalize the area and encouraging others to come to this neighborhood and grow.”…
As the Employee Support Coordinator at GreenForce, Mary Ieraci provides support and guidance to employees who may be facing challenges in the workplace.
