The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation presents $45,000 grant to the Springfield Project to increase access to career and college readiness program

The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”), presented a $45,000 grant to The Springfield Project in support of their CAPForward Career and College Readiness Program (“CAPForward”), an initiative that addresses key challenges faced by young individuals entering the workforce.

The funding will support a new van that will provide transportation services to program participants, increasing access to program sessions, mentorship opportunities, and community events that bridge the gap between education and employment. Transportation is a significant barrier for historically marginalized communities and by supporting tools to address such gaps, The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation and The Springfield Project are ensuring equitable access to a program that builds essential skills to navigate the professional world successfully.

“Molina is committed to equipping Illinoisians with the tools and resources they need to thrive,” said Matt Wolf, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Illinois. “By assisting with transportation, we’re setting the next generation of our workforce up for success, addressing economic and geographical barriers from the start.”

The van, designed by The Springfield Project and Molina, will transport students to and from CAPForward classes and events, advancing equity and opportunity for Springfield-area residents seeking support as they prepare for their careers. This initiative builds on Molina’s previous investment in The Springfield Project’s CAP 1908 Innovation Center, a space that enables small businesses to work in the same place, expanding opportunities for networking, growth and development.

“The Springfield Project is grateful for our continued partnership with Molina to promote equity and improve access to economic opportunities for low to moderate-income individuals,” said Dominic Watson, president of The Springfield Project. “Transportation access is a challenge for many of our students, and by offering transportation services, we are now able to reach more individuals, empowering them with the career readiness resources they need to succeed.”