Capital Blue Cross boosts Berks Tec Centro facility improvements
Dec. 28—Capital Blue Cross announced a significant financial commitment to help Berks Latino Workforce Development Corp., also known as Berks Tec Centro, undertake much-needed renovations at its facility in Reading to allow the nonprofit organization to grow its occupational training offerings.
The support is through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's Neighborhood Assistance Program under the component titled Special Program Priorities. Contributions to a single project meeting special programs requirements qualify for a 75% tax credit.
Violet Emoy, executive director of Berks Latino Workforce Development Corp., said her organization was approved for $200,000 for renovations focused on the basement of its facility at 450 S. Sixth St. BLWDC has commitments from four donors for that amount, she said.
In 2022, Berks Latino Workforce Development Corp launched a state-certified nurse's aides training program in partnership with Reading Area Community College and plans to expand its job training offerings to include medical assistant, phlebotomist and construction trades.
The organization plans fit-out construction of classroom space as it expands its trades programs, she said.
"We're grateful for our donors because it will help us start serious renovations that are needed as we phase in our programs," she said.
The organization's mission is to move Latinos out of poverty by providing self-awareness, education, a pathway for youth, training and workforce development, economic development, and empowerment to create economic wealth and opportunities in Berks.
Capital Blue Cross officials said those values align with their own organization.
"Increasing our communities' overall health and well-being, in part by closing existing gaps in access to opportunity, is among the ways Capital Blue Cross goes the extra mile every day," said Susan Hubley, vice president of corporate social responsibility. "It's difficult to imagine an organization that mirrors those values more closely than Berks Tec Centro. That's why we're so proud of this contribution, which will help provide additional pathways to education and professional development for Latinos in Berks County."
