Photo Courtesy of Tony Rose At a special check presentation are, from left, Karen Gaylord, director of programs at Newark Workforce Development Board; Libby Bajgerova, vice president market manager at Columbia Bank; and Julie Holland, executive director of the Columbia Bank Foundation.
At a special check presentation are, from left, Karen Gaylord, director of programs at Newark Workforce Development Board; Libby Bajgerova, vice president market manager at Columbia Bank; and Julie Holland, executive director of the Columbia Bank Foundation.
NEWARK, NJ — The Newark Workforce Development Board has received a $30,000 grant from the Columbia Bank Foundation to support ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between local businesses and unemployed Newark residents. The organization acts as a liaison with local businesses, while simultaneously preparing members of the community for the workforce. Programs focus on skill development, job readiness and financial stability. The donation stems from Columbia Bank’s annual gift program, where in lieu of a gift for the holidays, the foundation makes a donation in the name of the bank’s customers.
“Whenever we enter a community, we look to get involved in causes that matter to the people who live there,” bank President and CEO Thomas Kemly said. “When it came time to choose a recipient of our holiday gift, supporting the Newark Workforce Investment Board aligned with our desire to make a positive impact in the Newark community. We are proud to provide the needed funds to carry out their mission.”
In addition to the donation, Libby Bajgerova, vice president market manager, has also joined the board of the organization. As a board member, Bajgerova will play an integral role in delivering education and employment opportunities to Newark residents.
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