Related Affordable Foundation expands partnership with HIRE360

CHICAGO (Sept. 17, 2021) — The Related Affordable Foundation expands its partnership with HIRE360, the organization dedicated to increasing employment and advancement opportunities and provide ongoing support for Chicagoland residents, to provide residents at Parkway Gardens with free training, apprenticeships and job placement opportunities in the real estate development and construction sector.

As a founding partner of HIRE360, Related Midwest, the Chicago office of Related Companies, shares in its vision to train and place Chicagoans in sustainable, well-paying careers as well as supplying the city’s building industry with skilled tradespeople. As part of the expanded partnership, the new programs will be tailored for the needs of affordable housing residents in the Woodlawn neighborhood including at Parkway Gardens and more.

“HIRE360’s vision of investing and developing local talent by bringing business and labor together represents the best of Chicago innovation and aligns with our goals to maximize this city’s potential,” said Don Biernacki, Executive Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest. “We look forward to helping every affordable housing resident take advantage of HIRE360’s innovative programming to build sustainable careers.”

HIRE360’s offerings for participants enrolled in their training programs include test preparation and assistance; money to buy boots, books and tools for apprenticeships; case management services; referrals to jobs; and support throughout the apprenticeship process. In its search for skilled employees in the building trades to operate job sites across the city, Related’s commitment to HIRE360 includes offering opportunities to residents who may be interested in starting or changing careers.

“The construction and real estate development industry is growing and we are committed to making sure those who are building the city reflect our city,” said Jay Rowell, Executive Director of HIRE360. “We’re always looking for new avenues to reach Chicagoland residents, and Related has supported us and our mission from the very beginning. We look forward to working with Woodlawn residents on job opportunities in this high-demand industry.”

Woodlawn neighborhood residents who want to participate can visit https://hire360chicago.com/raf/.