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’re able to consistently help low-wage workers advance to high-paying jobs and create paths for workers from every possible background to thrive and prosper.
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Project Jumpstart
Project JumpStart is an 87-hour pre-apprenticeship construction training program for Baltimore City residents managed by JOTF and Associated Builders and Contractors. Training includes construction math, tool training, safety skills and certifications, and entry-level skills in electrical, plumbing and carpentry.
- Since 2006, over 1,000 Baltimore residents with significant employment challenges enrolled
- 80% of graduates were placed in industry employment with an $13/hr average starting wage
Public Policy & Advocacy
Our policy team focuses on advancing public policy initiatives that improve the economic opportunities and well-being of Maryland’s low-income workers. JOTF’s public policy priorities focus on:
- Adult education, post-secondary access and affordability
- Wages, benefits, and supports
- Reducing the impact of incarceration on workers
- Skills training
- Transportation
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:
- Criminalization of Poverty– Examines Maryland laws, policies, and practices that penalize individuals who are living in poverty
- Priced Out– Explores financial barriers to post-secondary education
- Overpriced and Underserved– Highlights the costs of being poor
