Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Workforce Development Program Graduates 51 Philadelphia Residents with Barriers to Employment

Graduates are Newly Trained for Green Collar Industry Jobs  

Commencement Program takes Place in FDR Park’s Boathouse in South Philadelphia 

WHAT:  

• 51 people are scheduled to celebrate their graduation from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Workforce Development program at FDR Park’s Boathouse on Friday, June 21, 2024. PHS’s Workforce Development Bootcamp program assists people who have experienced barriers to securing employment by offering six weeks of paid training in the green collar industry – jobs that help create or support environmental and sustainable practices. This program helps participants secure valuable apprenticeships with potential employers, while providing additional support services. PHS then offers post-graduation job placement assistance to program participants, helping to develop a funnel of well-trained green-collar workers and placing them into full-time jobs. 

• At this event, it will be announced that 84% of graduates were placed into full-time jobs and the number is expected to rise in the coming weeks. 

• All program graduates receive thorough training that equips them for employment and courses in conflict resolution, wellness, and vocational therapy.  

• PHS's employment partners assist with cleaning, greening, and maintaining over 13,000 vacant lots throughout Philadelphia helping to improve quality of life for residents. 

• Participants in this program help create neighborhoods that are healthier, greener, and more livable. 

WHY: The green collar jobs industry is growing and needs trained staff.   

Over 84% of graduates have been given jobs through PHS's network of employment partners, the majority of which are small, women and minority-owned businesses in the Philadelphia region with more job offers on the horizon. 

WHEN: Friday, June 21, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.  

WHERE: FDR Park Boathouse, Philadelphia, PA 19145 

VISUALS:  

• Recognizing the success story of those who are overcoming employment obstacles in a beautiful outdoor setting   

• Remarks from:  

• City of Philadelphia Director of Clean and Green – Carlton Williams 

• Pennsylvania Horticultural Society President – Matt Rader 

• Haven of Hope and Opportunity – Greg Thompson 

• Interviews with PHS spokesperson  

• Interviews with Workforce Development graduates 

ABOUT PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), an internationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 1827, uses horticulture to advance the health and well-being of the Greater Philadelphia Region. PHS programs create healthier living environments, increase access to fresh food, expand access to jobs and economic opportunity, and strengthen deeper social connections between people. PHS’s work spans 250 neighborhoods; an expansive network of public gardens and landscapes; year-round learning experiences; and the nation’s signature gardening event, the Philadelphia Flower Show. PHS provides everyone with opportunities to garden for the greater good as a participant, member, donor, or volunteer. For information and to support this impactful work, please visit PHSonline.org. 

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