MILWAUKEE, Wisc. — A local non-profit that educates and trains underserved adults has received a $5 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
As executive director of Walker’s Point-based i.c.stars, Blanca Gonzales says the gift is a game-changer.
“There's a lot of hidden talent in Milwaukee, who is just looking for an opportunity to be able to share their craft,” said Gonzales.
Gonzales says the multimillion-dollar donation comes at a time when the i.c.stars office is nearly bursting at the seams.
“This program is for anyone who's really in an under-resourced position who is looking for those resources to be able to put them in a technology space,” said Gonzales.
Around 95 percent of the program’s participants are people of color, coming from all corners of the Milwaukee area.
Those with the program say the money would help them give current interns like Luis Dominguez the chance to think outside the box and provide a better life for his two young children.
“I only had manual labor skills. I lack a lot of people skills and all that that I need to be successful and I really appreciate that we look over those skills as well,” said Dominguez.
That includes providing training and skills in coding, business, and leadership, while also connecting their scholars with hands-on experience with local companies.
“You have resources here you have people that are willing to help you. It's just basically on you. You have to be willing to do whatever it takes to meet your goals,” said Dominguez.
After completing a 4-month internship, mentors then work one-on-one with each graduate for 20 months in a case management-supported residency period to help them jumpstart their careers.
“If it hadn't been for i.c.stars, I know for a fact that I wouldn't have the position that I currently have,” said alum Luz Mercado.
Luz Mercado says i.c.stars gave her the confidence to embrace her love of stem and pursue her passion as a career.
She says she carries their support with her every day and hopes others will be inspired to get involved as well.
“It's going to shape the future of technology one step at a time, that everything that they do, causes an impact and literally changes the life of the person that goes through the program,” said Mercado.
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