How & Where JOTF Impacts Our Community

JOTF works to eliminate educational and employment barriers for low-wage workers by transforming the systems and policies that create and perpetuate those barriers.

Each day, JOTF works relentlessly to eliminate obstacles to meaningful, stable employment through investments in adult education and skills training, effective public policy reform, and cutting-edge research.  By doing so, we can consistently help low-wage workers advance to high-paying jobs and create paths for workers from every possible background to thrive and prosper.

BetterU Construction Training

The BetterU Construction Training is an 87-hour pre-apprenticeship construction program for Baltimore City residents, which is owned and operated by the Job Opportunities Task Force (JOTF).  Training includes construction math, tool training, safety skills and certifications, and entry-level skills in electrical, plumbing and carpentry.

  • JOTF has trained over 1,200 Baltimore residents with significant employment challenges enrolled
  • Graduates were placed in industry employment with a $20/hr average starting wage

 

 

JOTF COMMUNITY BAIL FUND

DECRIMINALIZING POVERTY IN REAL TIME

In May 2020, through an anonymous donation, the Job Opportunities Task Force (JOTF) established its first community bail fund – the Community Bail Fund for Baltimore City.  This Fund supports city residents represented by the Maryland Office of the Public Defender who are charged with nonviolent offenses. This Fund prioritizes individuals who identify as women and individuals under the age of 25.   The following month, JOTF began soliciting funds to support individuals incarcerated in pretrial detention due to an unaffordable cash bail. These funds will prioritize pretrial defendants, regardless of gender or age, in Baltimore County, Montgomery and Prince George’s County.  In addition to facilitating the payment of cash bails, JOTF provides customized, intensive case management support to the individuals released. This includes transportation supports, court preparation, connection with critical services and resources, and more.

 

 

Public Policy & Advocacy

Our policy team focuses on advancing public policy initiatives that improve Maryland’s low-income workers’ economic opportunities and well-being.  JOTF’s public policy priorities focus on:

  • Adult education, post-secondary access and affordability
  • Wages, benefits, and supports
  • Skills training
  • Decriminalizing Poverty
  • Access to affordable transportation options
  • Reducing the impact of incarceration on workers

Research & Public Education

The combination of JOTF’s advocacy and programmatic work is supported and influenced by our cutting-edge research and public education efforts.  JOTF’s recent publications, which can be found on our website, include:

JOTF is powered by passionate, purpose-driven people who know a better future can only come through better opportunities.

Your support matters.

Make a tax-deductable donation to JOTF today.

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