Wisconsin Bankers Association Invests $15,000 to Support BankWork$ Program

The Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) has strengthened its partnership with Employ Milwaukee’s BankWork$ program by contributing $15,000 in financial support. The announcement came during the graduation ceremony for the summer cohort of students, where participants were recognized for completing the eight-week training program that prepares individuals for family-sustaining careers in the financial services industry.

BankWork$ opens doors for young adults from low-income and under-resourced communities to develop professional and financial skills to thrive in banking positions. Adriene Wright, BankWork$ Instructor with Employ Milwaukee, emphasizes that the program equips participants with skills that lead to opportunities for advancement beyond entry level positions. “BankWork$ gives them confidence, financial knowledge and empowerment, pride, self-sufficiency, and a career in which there are opportunities to excel. It’s a winning combination for everyone involved.”

BankWork$ operates in eight states nationwide, and Wisconsin is fortunate to be one of them. Employ Milwaukee has already expanded the program beyond Milwaukee into Waukesha and Racine, with hybrid programming planned for other areas of the state. The efficacy of the program is evident it its success: more than 5000 careers launched since 2006, and 72 percent of graduates remain with their employer after 12 months.

Julie Cayo, President and CEO of Employ Milwaukee, explains that BankWork$’s success in workforce development springs from evidence-based best practice. “The program starts with employers first, which results in better placement, retention, and advancement outcomes for job seekers. Our retail banking partners validate the training curriculum, contribute funding, and hire graduates directly from the class.”

The Wisconsin Bankers Association has been an active supporter of the program since its introduction in the state.

“WBA is proud to support programs like BankWork$ that change lives in our communities,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA President and CEO. “I love the program and appreciate the great talent it brings to our industry.”

WBA presented a $15,000 check to Employ Milwaukee during the graduation ceremony in recognition of the shared mission to connect determined individuals to promising careers in banking.