WeReach Impact Report - 2024
Transforming Lives and Creating Opportunities
At WeReach, we are committed to transforming lives and creating opportunities for underserved and minority communities through innovative workforce development programs. This year, we’ve made significant strides in empowering individuals, opening doors to meaningful careers, and equipping them with the skills needed to reach their full potential.
Key Highlights
01
NIST Grant: Empowering Communities of Color
We are proud to be the only organization approved as an apprenticeship sponsor for the Cybersecurity Program by NIST. This initiative focuses on two key pathways:
Returning Citizens: In partnership with the Essex County Sheriff’s STAR program, 20% of participants have secured full-time employment.
ESL and Recent Immigrants: Through our collaboration with La Colaborativa, three students are excelling in the program.
02
Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program
Our Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program has seen tremendous success, with 23 participants across two cohorts. 35% have graduated, gaining essential skills for future career success. This program is helping build a skilled cybersecurity workforce in Massachusetts.
03
Reentry Programs: Supporting Community Reintegration
WeReach’s reentry program has helped many individuals reintegrate into their communities. We successfully concluded our first 14-month reentry grant, with 50% of participants earning industry-recognized credentials and 33% securing employment. Our second reentry grant is also showing positive results, with 21% of participants earning credentials and 29% finding employment.
04
Construction Management Advancement Training Program
Our 2-year Construction Management Program is off to a strong start. The first cohort of trainees has completed the program, receiving $28,000 in completion stipends. 29% of participants have already experienced significant pay increases in their current roles.
05
Funding Impact and Awards
We are grateful for the financial support that helps us expand and enhance our programs. Key funding highlights include:
• MassCEC Construction Management Program: $656,000
• Returning Citizens Program: $250,000
• Apprenticeship Program: $200,000
• Private Donors: $25,000
• Cybersecurity Workforce Development: $8,000
• Returning Citizens Office (Boston, MA): $5,000
• Eastern Bank Foundation: $1,000
Looking Ahead
We are excited to continue our journey of workforce development, empowering communities, and building a brighter future for all. Our programs showcase the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of education and skills training.
Thank you for being a part of our journey towards creating positive change through education and training.
Meet Dr. Jose Perez, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-owner of DPV Transportation, a global chauffeured service with 250+ employees and four U.S. offices. His achievements include $100M+ in corporate bids, expansion to Medellin, Colombia, and winning the Boston Globe’s “Best Places to Work” award in 2020 and 2021. As the founder of Roads Consulting Group, he empowers disadvantaged communities and businesses, fostering economic growth. Beyond entrepreneurship, Dr. Perez teaches at Baystate College, serves on the Dorchester Bay Economic Development board, and is a dedicated community member committed to positive impact.
