Genesys Works Secures $1 Million from Salesforce for Digital Advancement in Education

In an impactful move towards educational equity, Genesys Works, a notable nonprofit organization focused on helping underserved high school students achieve career success, has announced a generous $1 million grant from Salesforce, the top AI customer relationship management platform. This funding aims to strengthen the support systems that play a crucial role in advancing the outcomes for students and alumni within the national Genesys Works network.

Byron V. Garrett, CEO of Genesys Works, expressed his enthusiasm about the grant, stating, "This investment from Salesforce helps us strengthen the tools and support our students and alumni rely on." For 25 years, Genesys Works has empowered young people by providing them with valuable work experiences, robust networks, and pathways to successful college and career trajectories. Garrett believes that this support can dramatically transform not only individual futures but also the communities they belong to.

The $1 million grant will enhance Genesys Works' core model that includes paid internships, career skills training, and comprehensive postsecondary success programming. This investment is a strategic step towards expanding the organization's capabilities to deliver these valuable outcomes on a larger scale.

A Comprehensive Program

Genesys Works offers a multifaceted program that includes eight weeks of essential technical and professional skills training, followed by paid year-long internships during students' senior years. In addition to internships, the program provides crucial college and career coaching and long-term alumni support. The organization's efforts have already impacted more than 14,000 students nationwide, leading to an impressive 90% college enrollment rate among those who complete the program. Alumni, just six years post-high school graduation, achieve a median income of $70,000, showcasing the program's effectiveness in uplifting economic circumstances.

The funding will also support extensive training for Genesys Works staff, data-informed decision-making processes, and operational improvements essential for consistently delivering high-quality programming across different regions. With over 245 corporate partners, including significant players in various industries, Genesys Works continues to forge paths for high school students into promising careers.

Fostering Future Talent

In a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, the need for a skilled workforce equipped for this digital transformation is paramount. Becky Ferguson, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at Salesforce, emphasized the responsibility of organizations to ensure equitable access to knowledge and skills for all. She stated, "Salesforce is proud to support Genesys Works in their mission to create pathways for young learners to gain the skills and real workplace experience that can open doors for years to come."

The grant ensures that Genesys Works can build a robust foundation for the future. As Garrett mentioned, the interconnectedness of innovation and equity must go hand in hand, particularly as entry-level positions increasingly require prior experience. By providing students with a year of professional exposure and opportunities to develop relationships leading to further internships and job placements post-college, the organization envisions a positive ripple effect that can alter the trajectory of lives.

As Genesys Works embarks on the next chapter of its journey with the new funding, the organization aims to continue providing transformative opportunities for high school students, further bridging the gap between education and workforce preparedness in underserved communities.

For more information about Genesys Works or to explore opportunities for corporate partnerships, please visit genesysworks.org/corporate-partners.