United Way of Central Indiana expands Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative

INDIANAPOLIS – United Way of Central Indiana has expanded its Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative, designed to be an “on ramp” for people seeking industry-recognized credentials.  

Now in its second year, the initiative helps participants earn certifications and land jobs that pay livable wages – on a quick timeline. Fathers and Families Center, Public Advocates in Community Re-Entry (PACE) and Indiana Plan have joined Dress for Success Indianapolis and Indianapolis Urban League in offering the initiative.  

“The Workforce Pathways Accelerator is about creating on-ramps to jobs that pay a family-sustaining wage – quickly and effectively,” said Shannon Jenkins, United Way’s vice president of impact. “We are proud to expand this initiative alongside trusted community partners, so that more people across Central Indiana can earn industry-recognized credentials, remove barriers, and take their next step toward long-term financial stability and economic mobility.” 

United Way works to distance Central Indiana households from poverty. It does that by focusing its resources on four essential areas: basic needs, early care and learning, economic mobility, and safe and affordable housing. The Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative is part of United Way’s economic mobility efforts, meant to help people move up the economic ladder through workforce development.  

The initiative launched in July 2024 and was piloted in its first year by Dress for Success Indianapolis and Indianapolis Urban League. United Way and its partners anticipated serving 40 people in the first year, but 76 enrolled – and 41 earned credentials. United Way expanded the initiative to include three additional partners in July 2025.  

Fathers and Families Center, Public Advocates in Community Re-Entry (PACE) and Indiana Plan each received a $200,000 grant from United Way, and Dress for Success Indianapolis and Indianapolis Urban League received $150,000.  

The one-year grants cover the cost of participants’ training and certification testing, help eliminate barriers along the way and allow the nonprofits to hire or support coaches to guide them through training and employment. 

“Year one proved that when training leads to a real credential – and we remove the cost and life hurdles that get in the way with intentional support – people move quickly into better-paying careers,” said Bernadette Monk, United Way’s economic mobility director. “We’re expanding the Accelerator with more partners and tracks so more Central Indiana residents can earn credentials and step straight into jobs where their families can thrive.” 

Read more about the Workforce Pathways Accelerator Initiative’s first year.