Verizon Wireless Awards $5,000 Grant to Support Los Angeles Area Job Preparedness Program
Verizon Wireless Awards $5,000 Grant to Support Los Angeles Area Job Preparedness Program
Funds will Help Domestic Violence Survivors Prepare for Employment
November 14, 2001
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NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA
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Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest wireless provider, has awarded a $5,000 grant to Dress-for-Success- Los Angeles, a non-profit organization that provides professional clothing to disadvantaged men and women who are transitioning into the workforce.
"More than 2,000 people request our assistance every year in acquiring a wardrobe for work and developing interview skills. With the exception of one full-time staff member, we are an all volunteer effort," said Janet Lavender, executive director of Dress-for-Success- Los Angeles. "Verizon Wireless' grant, combined with other corporate donations, helps support our operations and enables us to provide much needed assistance."
The program, which has assisted more than 5,000 men and women since it began in November 1996, fills a critical gap. Those seeking employment and a new future include the homeless and welfare-to-work individuals, parolees and domestic violence survivors. Verizon Wireless aids domestic violence prevention efforts nationwide.
"Learning appropriate job skills is perhaps the best way for disadvantaged individuals, such as victims of domestic violence, to step out of their current situation and become confident and productive members of society," said Greg Klimek, regional president, Verizon Wireless. "Dress-for-Success makes a tremendous impact in Los Angeles, and we're proud to sponsor their efforts."
"When I was homeless, I vowed to find a way to help others like myself build their self-esteem and confidence in constructive ways that would help them find jobs, and I'm proud that Dress-for-Success- Los Angeles can make a difference in so many lives," said Janet Lavender, founder, Dress-for-Success- Los Angeles. "We are grateful to the Verizon Wireless for their support."
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless is the largest wireless communications provider in the U.S. with more than 28.7 million wireless voice and data customers. The coast-to-coast wireless provider was formed by the combination of the U.S. wireless businesses of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD), including Bell Atlantic Mobile, AirTouch Cellular and GTE Wireless. Verizon Wireless has a footprint covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population, 49 of the top 50 and 97 of the top 100 U.S. markets. The company, headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, is 40,000 employees strong. Reporters and editors can find more information about the company on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.