Chicago, Illinois Sep 29, 2023 (Issuewire.com) - Tools Up Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting diversity and equality in the construction industry, is proud to announce the launch of its program, TUF Teens. Designed to provide underserved individuals with the tools and resources necessary to excel in the construction field, TUF Teens aims to break down barriers, create pathways for success, and transform communities. Communities plagued with violence can benefit from TUF Teens' transformative approach, which offers a way to make real, long-lasting change.
This innovative program not only equips teens with valuable construction and social skills but also provides them with paid opportunities and transportation, ensuring that financial constraints and access to transportation do not hinder their participation. By offering these essential resources, TUF Teens acts as a catalyst for communities plagued by violence and also actively prioritizes and promotes social services and mental health.
Tools Up Foundation Leads the Way with Dominique Jones as Champion of Diversity and Inclusion
Dominique Jones, the Founder and Executive Director of Tools Up Foundation, and former Miss Illinois United States, started her career in construction as a Project Engineer managing multi-million-dollar commercial construction projects. Some of her notable projects were the new Malcolm X College, as a Project Engineer for McKissack and McKissack, and the new Englewood STEM High School while working at Chicago’s Public Building Commission (PBC).
As the founder and CEO of D. Jones Construction, a certified Minority and Women Business Enterprise General Construction firm, and Jones Development, a real estate investment firm for underserved communities, Dominique has firsthand experience of the lack of diversity in the industry. Utilizing her expertise and knowledge, she spearheads efforts through the Tools Up Foundation to create meaningful change and establish a pipeline of qualified individuals from similar backgrounds. Dominique's mission is to increase the representation of underserved people in the construction industry, especially minority women.
In addition to her role as Executive Director, she serves as a mentor and instructor within the foundation, sharing her skills and empowering others.
“I made it my mission to create a training pipeline for more minorities entering the construction industry. I believe in the power of representation and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities. As a woman of color in the predominantly male construction industry, I have firsthand experience of the unique barriers and challenges that minority individuals often encounter when pursuing a career in construction. However, through all the adversity, I’ve gained tools, resources, and solutions that can help minorities have thriving careers in the industry.”
Tools Up Foundation's TUF Teens program is dedicated to cultivating talent, promoting diversity, and inspiring the next generation of construction professionals to dream big and create a lasting impact in the industry. By fostering a supportive environment, TUF Teens aims to bridge the gap in representation and ensure that future leaders reflect the diversity of our society.
Tuf Teens Aims to Break the Cycle of Gun Violence
The initial launch of the TUF Teens program will target Southeast Chicago neighborhoods; it will play an integral role in breaking the cycle of violence by providing a safe and supportive environment for teens. Through the Cook County Gun Violence Prevention grant, Tools Up Foundation will expand its efforts to educate and engage young individuals in constructive activities, providing them with opportunities, skills, and mentorship that can help divert them from negative influences.
How to Apply
To join the TUF Teens program, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Tools Up Foundation website and complete the application form. Applicants must be 14 -17 years old in the surrounding areas that are Englewood, West Englewood, Auburn Gresham, Roseland, Chatham, West Pullman, South Chicago, Washington Heights, Grand Boulevard, Gage Park, South Deering, Calumet Heights, East Side in order to participate in the program. Applications are open. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to be a part of an innovative program that will open doors to a wide range of opportunities in the construction industry.
About Tools Up Foundation
Tools Up Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting fulfilling careers in the construction industry. The foundation provides accessible training, education, and resources to individuals from underserved communities, empowering them to pursue fulfilling careers in construction trades. Through its various programs, Tools Up Foundation is actively working towards building a more diverse and inclusive future for the industry.
Media Contact
That's So Creative media@thatssocreative.com 773-981-9086 Ext. 87 https://thatssocreative.com/
