EMERGE

EMERGE is a non-profit that connects disadvantaged individuals with economic opportunities. The organization works with public and private partners in four areas: job training and placement, housing, job creation strategies, and community development. Workforce programs include support for low-income families participating in the Minnesota Family Investment Program, refugee employment services, adult job placement and retention support, customized training for industries in need of qualified employees, and job placement programs targeted for youth and people with criminal backgrounds. Subsidized housing programs offer formerly homeless families an opportunity to achieve a greater sense of self-sufficiency. While matching employers with candidates, EMERGE's staffing program also provides behind-the-scenes support for job-seekers including clothing and transportation. To improve the overall economic climate, EMERGE operates community development projects such as commercial redevelopment and wealth creation projects that create job opportunities in the community while earning income. EMERGE is supported by government funds, contributions, program fees, and investment income.

Invest in people through social enterprise.

In an independent report on EMERGE and three other alternative-staffing organizations (ASO), 48 percent of EMERGE program participants held full-time positions. Of those employed, 42 percent reported receiving some type of employer-sponsored benefit coverage, such as health insurance or paid time off. EMERGE serves more than 2,000 residents of distressed communities and has placed more than 1,000 into jobs. The organization's housing program serves 180 chronically homeless families, and venture projects have employed more than 500 residents annually.