HIRE360 IN THE NEWS
2024
JPMorgan Chase unveils $10.9M in grants to Chicago community organizations
Crain's Chicago Business
November 1, 2024
Local organizations receiving money include Allies for Community Business, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, The Chicago Community Foundation, Civic Consulting Alliance, Hire360 and United Way of Metro Chicago.
HIRE360 EXPANDS ‘EMPOWERING FUTURES’ WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAM WITH AN ADDITIONAL $250,000 CONTRIBUTION FROM CONSTELLATION
HIRE360 Press Release
October 31, 2024
HIRE360, a leading nonprofit focused on expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities, is pleased to announce an additional $250,000 contribution from Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG) to help expand the organization’s “Empowering Futures” workforce development program. This second installment brings Constellation’s total investment to $500,000, further supporting efforts to increase access to family-sustaining jobs in the clean energy and building trades sectors for underrepresented communities in Illinois.
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN: HIRE360 AND ILLINOIS AFL-CIO LAUNCH STATEWIDE “CLIMATE WORKS PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM” TO TRAIN 500 UNDERSERVED ILLINOIS RESIDENTS FOR CLEAN ENERGY CAREERS
HIRE360 Press Release
October 22, 2024
HIRE360, a leading nonprofit focused on expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities, today announced a groundbreaking statewide partnership with the Illinois AFL-CIO to launch the Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Supported by the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), this initiative is designed to create a pathway for nearly 500 Illinois residents from underrepresented communities to enter union careers in the burgeoning clean energy sector.
HIRE360 Revoluciona la capacitación, desarrollo empresarial y diversidad en los Oficios
El Día Newspaper
October 5, 2024
HIRE360, acompañado por el Gobernador J.B. Pritzker, el Alcalde Brandon Johnson, el Congresista Raja Krishnamoorthi y otros líderes locales, lanzó hoy su innovador Centro de Capacitación y Desarrollo Empresarial, una instalación de última generación diseñada para reconfigurar la diversidad laboral en las industrias de la construcción y los oficios en Chicago. El centro ofrece acceso sin precedentes a capacitación práctica, aprendizajes sindicales, mentoría y recursos para el desarrollo empresarial, empoderando a una nueva generación de profesionales y negocios diversos para prosperar en el sector de la construcción.
Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson Unveil HIRE360 Center to Boost Workforce Diversity in Chicago Trades
Chicago Defender
September 28, 2024
HIRE360, joined by Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other local leaders, today launched its groundbreaking Training and Business Development Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to reshape workforce diversity in Chicago’s construction and trades industries. The center offers unparalleled access to hands-on training, union apprenticeships, mentorship, and business development resources, empowering a new generation of diverse professionals and businesses to thrive in the construction sector.
Hire360 opens new training facility in Chicago
Fox 32 Chicago
September 26, 2024
As Chicago's skyline grows, so does the demand for skilled hands to build it and Hire360 is ensuring the city's workforce is ready to rise to the challenge.
Hire360 opens new training hub to boost diversity in Chicago’s construction and trades
WGN-TV
September 26, 2024
A local nonprofit workforce development organization is celebrating a new state-of-the-art development center geared towards reshaping diversity in the city’s construction and trade industries. Once a dilapidated storehouse, Hire360 at 25th and State officially opened its new center on Thursday. State leaders believe the work done inside will continue propelling Chicagoans to union apprenticeships, resources, and good-paying jobs.
GOVERNOR JB PRITZKER AND MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON JOIN HIRE360 TO UNVEIL TRANSFORMATIVE TRAINING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER, REVOLUTIONIZING DIVERSITY IN CHICAGO’S TRADES
HIRE360 Press Release
September 26, 2024
HIRE360, joined by Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other local leaders, today launched its groundbreaking Training and Business Development Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to reshape workforce diversity in Chicago’s construction and trades industries. The center offers unparalleled access to hands-on training, union apprenticeships, mentorship, and business development resources, empowering a new generation of diverse professionals and businesses to thrive in the construction sector.
Notable Black Leaders 2024 - Congrats to Deb!
Crain's Chicago Business
September 23, 2024
Whitaker has been leading business development at Hire360 for four years, supporting over 180 minority- and women-owned businesses. She drives capacity building, access to capital and strategic mentorship, and has facilitated over 90 loans totaling $15 million.
Hire360 set to open $9 million training center after donation from billionaire MacKenzie Scott
Chicago Business Journal
September 17, 2024
Chicago nonprofit Hire360 will host a grand opening next week for a new training and business development center in the South Loop that was built with a $3 million donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
HIRE360 Continues To Grow And Expand
Citizen Newspaper
September 11, 2024
Brown said what sets HIRE360 apart is that it has a focus on pre-apprenticeship skills, soft skills and hard skills. It also has a workforce team that is capable and ready to assist the candidates face-to-face. That team of case managers work with the candidates from day one, walking the candidates throughout their career. The work includes case managers helping candidates with interview preparation, mock interviews or anything else the candidates need to prepare them for the workforce.
Workers from Chicago’s South and West sides make up only 20% of construction labor for DNC
Chicago Tribune
August 17, 2024
McHugh-Powers collaborated with a number of groups dedicated to training and sourcing workers from underrepresented communities, including minority workforce development organization HIRE360. HIRE360 was also able to bring recent Chicago Public Schools graduates from their pre-apprenticeship cohort to tour the DNC construction site, said Executive Director Jay Rowell.
HIRE360 connects minority candidates with the jobs of their dreams
CBS News Chicago
August 13, 2024
HIRE360 is a non-profit organization that connects minority candidates with the jobs of their dreams. Ryan Brown says it helped him find his life's calling.
Chicago nonprofit, HIRE360, connects candidates with careers of their dreams
CBS News Chicago
August 9, 2024
Electricians, carpenters, plumbers, and many more hard-working Americans are members of trade unions. CBS News Chicago found a nonprofit organization that connects minority candidates with the jobs of their dreams, including one young man who said it helped him find his life's calling.
2 Chicago Nonprofits Get $16 Million To Expand Clean Energy Job Programs On South, West Sides
Block Club Chicago
July 10, 2024
The 548 Foundation and HIRE360 will use the funds awarded through the state’s Clean and Equitable Jobs Act to create more opportunities for graduates of their apprenticeship and training programs.
ComEd, HIRE360 Celebrate New Graduating Class of EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Business Wire
June 4, 2024
Take Charge: EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program graduates 16 local residents ready for trades careers supporting Illinois’ fast-growing EV sector.
Chicago nonprofit recruits hundreds of apprenticeships
Chicago Business Journal
March 28, 2024
HIRE360 targets recruiting minorities and women to the trades, leveraging partnerships with big name developers, contractors and unions.
Billionaire MacKenzie Scott donates $2 million to EverThrive Illinois
Chicago Business Journal
March 19, 2024
Other Chicago organizations that have received their largest donations ever from Scott include Cara Collective ($8 million); Chicago Urban League ($6.6 million); Skills for Chicagoland’s Future ($5 million); and Hire360 ($3 million).
Landmarking Illinois Influencers
Classic Chicago Magazine
March 16, 2024
Honored influencers were: Lisa Yun Lee, Executive Director of the National Public Housing Museum; Juan Moreno, Project Design Principal, President and Founder, JGMA; Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, Chicagoan historian and Co-Founder, Chicago Mahogany Tours; Non-Profit Influencer Hire360, represented by Jay Rowell, Executive Director; and Corporate Influencer, Holsten Real Estate Development Corporation, represented by Senior Vice President and General Counsel Jackie Holsten and President Peter Holsten.
Black-Owned Electrical Contractor Builds Up Austin
Austin Weekly News
February 20, 2024
Hire360 helped Simply E&C get into the solar construction space, where the contractor signed its first multimillion-dollar contract for three, two-megawatt solar systems.
HIRE360 Announces $650,000 Philanthropic Commitment from JPMorgan Chase
Chicago Crusader
February 19, 2024
With 154 such enterprises already benefiting from HIRE360's initiatives, the new funds will accelerate this positive trajectory.
HIRE360 ANNOUNCES $650,000 PHILANTHROPIC COMMITMENT FROM JPMORGAN CHASE
HIRE360 Press Release
February 13, 2024
Investment Will Support Women and Minority-Owned Enterprises and Pre-Apprenticeship
Workforce Development in Illinois
Energizing The Workforce: Electricians And EV Industry Growth
Forbes
February 7, 2024
Another example is ComEd’s Take Charge: EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program, a partnership between the utility and HIRE360, a nonprofit organization. The paid training program provides participants with an introduction to the EV charging industry and helps them transition into local apprenticeships through IBEW Local 134.
JPMorgan Chase Investing in Opportunity Newsletter
Forbes
February 6, 2024
HIRE360, a JPMorgan Chase grantee that provides workforce development programs, has partnered with ComEd, Chicagoland’s electric provider, on a pre-apprenticeship program called Take Charge, which helps equip jobseekers with workforce training to prepare for careers in the electric vehicle industry. Most of Take Charge’s November graduates were from communities where investment in job training and economic development has historically been lacking.
HIRE360 PROUDLY PARTNERS WITH GREAT LAKES RENEW, A FINALIST IN NSF'S INNOVATION ENGINES COMPETITION FOR A TRANSFORMATIVE BLUE ECONOMY INITIATIVE
HIRE360 Press Release
January 29, 2024
Collaboration Proposes Plan to Leverage Innovation and Workforce Development to Create
Sustainable Ecosystems and Drive Inclusive Economic Growth
This construction nonprofit grabbed MacKenzie Scott's attention
Crain’s Chicago Business
January 23, 2024
A nonprofit that helps build up Chicago and diversify the city’s construction industry is expanding its operation, with a big helping hand from famed billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
HIRE360 Announces $3 Million Gift from MacKenzie Scott
Chicago Citizen
January 17, 2024
Chicago Nonprofit to Build Center with $3M Donation from MacKenzie Scott
Connect CRE
January 15, 2024
HIRE360 ANNOUNCES $3 MILLION GIFT FROM MACKENZIE SCOTT, ADVANCING VISION FOR TRAINING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
HIRE360 Press Release
January 8, 2024
The Facility Will Provide a Hub for Underrepresented Groups to Explore Careers in the Trades and Provide Support for Women- and Minority-Owned Entrepreneurs.
Chicago nonprofit receives $3M donation from MacKenzie Scott
FOX 32 Chicago
January 8, 2024
A Chicago nonprofit received a $3 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott this week.
Mackenzie Scott Donates $3 Million to Chicago Nonprofit HIRE360
CBS News Chicago
January 8, 2024
U.S. Rep. Krishnamoorthi Hosting Panel On Bill Mandating Consideration Of Job Applicants Without College Degree
Journal & Topics Media Group
January 4, 2024
Panelists expected to join Krishnamoorthi at 1.pm. event are Gina Rosen, of Opportunity@Work, Jay Rowell, of HIRE360, Joe Scrima, of Harper College, and High School Dist. 211 school board members Steven Rosenblum and Korn Ferry.
2023
Building an Equitable, Diverse, & Unionized Clean Energy Economy: What We Can Learn from Apprenticeship Readiness
The Climate Jobs Institute
November 30, 2023
This report highlights one of these critical interventions: apprenticeship readiness programs. Such programs recruit, support, and prepare people to enter and successfully complete registered apprenticeship programs. They routinely target the construction industry, aiming to provide opportunities for members of underserved communities and people underrepresented in the building trades.
Clean energy transition means more jobs
Chicago Sun-Times
November 17, 2023
It will take a diverse, durable coalition of policymakers willing to take the actions necessary to drive toward a cleaner, more equitable future, leaders of ComEd and HIRE360 write.
ComEd, HIRE360 Celebrate First Graduating Class of New EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program
WVON AM
November 9, 2023
ComEd and HIRE360 joined members of the community to recognize the first class of graduates of the Take Charge: Pre-Apprenticeship program, a first-of-its-kind program to prepare local residents for careers supporting the fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) industry in Illinois.
Local organization HIRE360 diversifies workforce in fast-growing trades
Chicago Gazette
October 2023
A local organization is working to increase the labor force in some of the nation’s fastest growing trades. HIRE360, a Near South-based nonprofit, is partnering with several organizations across the city with hopes of diversifying fields such as construction and pipefitting, said Jay Rowell, HIRE360’s executive director.
New EV Pre-Apprenticeship Program Aims to Create Diverse Pipeline to EV Industry
Chicago Citizen Newspaper
August 16, 2023
HIRE360 and ComEd have partnered to create a pre apprenticeship program that is meant to be a pipeline to develop diverse talent and grow the Electric Vehicle Industry in Illinois. The EV Charging Pre-Apprenticeship Program is an eight-week, paid training program, which is set to begin in the fall. The training will focus on people in communities on the South and West sides.
New Hire360 partnership to support diversity in local trades
Chicago Crusader
August 14, 2023
Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG), the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the U.S., is contributing $250,000 to HIRE360 as part of a program to increase employment and training opportunities in the building trades for women and people of color in the Chicago area. The partnership, an expansion of Constellation’s $1 million Powering Change workforce development initiative, will help HIRE360 launch a program to train people in historically underserved communities for family-sustaining union jobs in the building trades.
Women In Construction Benefit From Consortium
Chicago Citizen Newspaper
July 19, 2023
Harris and Tenna D. Monroe are two women who are working on the Obama Presidential Center. The Obama Foundation convened the We Can Build It Consortium after receiving $3 million from Bank of America to support its workforce development and community support initiatives. The We Can Build It Consortium and the Obama Presidential Center developed a pipeline of talented people in the construction industry. Partners for We Can Build It include Chicago Women in Trades, HIRE360, Revolution Workshop, St. Paul Community Development Ministries, Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters and IBEW 134. Through the Chicago Women In Trades program, Harris has made lifelong mentors and friends. She liked the group of women in the plumbing program and the camaraderie they had. The part that piqued her interest the most was when they had to solder copper and move around materials.
The Workers’ Mic
WGN Radio
July 2, 2023
Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, returns to The Workers’ Mic, Powered by the MCL, Ken Edwards and Ed Maher to talk about his recent article on diversity in the labor movement, and about the cross-industry partnership of HIRE360 that is providing career opportunities in the Chicagoland area.
Obama Presidential Center lands $26 million grant
Crain’s Chicago Business
June 22, 2023
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation announced it will give the Obama Foundation a $26 million grant to be used for the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. $25 million of the grant will go toward establishing the Democracy in Action Lab, a programming hub that aims to provide “a physical space to facilitate community convening and inspire civic participation.” The remaining $1 million will support the Obama Foundation’s Leaders Program, connecting and supporting civic leaders around the world. The new program, made possible by the foundation’s grant, is described as the “epicenter” of the center’s commitment to community and “a space to enrich young leaders in the neighborhood and around the world,” according to a press release. It will be designed to host a variety of events, from community gathering and workshops to lectures from prominent speakers. HIRE360 has people working on the Obama Presidential Center.
Cook County Selected for $1.1 Million Grant Award to Strengthen Solar Installation Opportunities for Business Owners
Lawndale News
June 22, 2023
President Preckwinkle announced that Cook County was selected for a $1.1 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office. With these funds, Cook County will partner with HIRE360 and OAI to establish the Chicagoland Solar Collaborative to identify needs and develop solutions to support the emerging market and increased demand for solar installation. Cook County is one of twelve organizations selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO)’s $13.5 million Advancing Equity through Workforce Partnerships program to facilitate the rapid deployment of solar energy technologies by growing and supporting an inclusive workforce with opportunities for union membership.
HIRE360 connects companies and minority communities with jobs
Univision Chicago Radio
May 29, 2023
HIRE360 is a nonprofit organization that helps minority people enter the construction and trades industry. Our work is focused on connecting individuals with projects that are happening in the city of Chicago. This summer, HIRE360 and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced a partnership aimed at providing unique work-based learning opportunities for students in the Career Tech Education’s Construction & Architecture programs.
Access to pre-apprenticeship program helps those interested in skilled trades
Chicago Citizen Newspaper
May 11, 2023
Lonnie Baker wasn't sure what he wanted as a career choice. It wasn't until he had to get work done on his property that he pinpointed plumbing as a career. Baker's uncle was the reason he considered going into a skilled trade. Baker was connected to HIRE360 through a church member who worked with HIRE360 in the past. Baker reached out and was set up with a case worker.
CTA Approves $3.4M in Contracts to Expand Workforce Partner Program
Railway Track And Structures
April 14, 2023
As part of the Chicago Transit Authority's plans to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in its operations, the Chicago Transit Board approved the awarding of two contracts totaling $3.4 million to five local contractors on April 12 to assist in the identification, recruitment, and training of a diverse prospective workforce and their placement on CTA and area construction projects. The second contract, awarded to Chicago Women in Trades and HIRE360, is for services to help qualified job seekers find work on CTA and other regional construction projects.
Commentary: Hire360’s vision becomes reality and changes construction and development in Chicago
Crain’s Chicago Business
March 20, 2023
Don Biernacki is board chair of HIRE360 and executive vice president of construction at Related Midwest. In 2019, a group of developers, general contractors and labor unions in Chicago came together to address a problem: If inclusivity in an industry means having it reflect the world around it, our industry has historically failed to meet that bar. Out of our discussions was born HIRE360, an innovative, cross-industry partnership that would provide localized mentorship, direct investment and specialized services to strengthen the participation of underrepresented populations in the Chicago area.
Developers share the spoils on big projects — as far as the law allows
Crain’s Chicago Business
March 20, 2023
Over the next decade, megaprojects such as O'Hare 21, Related Midwest's The 78 and Sterling Bay's Lincoln Yards have the potential to lift dozens of small minority- and women-owned firms. There's also the proposed Chicago Transit Authority Red Line extension, reconstruction of DuSable Lake Shore Drive, the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park and Bally's River West casino.
WVON AM - February 27, 2023 - LeAndre Perkins interview
WVON AM
February 27, 2023
LeAndre Perkins speaks with WVON about working in the construction trade after learning about HIRE360 at a
job
fair and enrolling in ahpre-apprenticeship program.
Related Midwest Unveils 300-Unit The Row Fulton Market to Bring an Elevated Lifestyle to Chicago’s Famed Restaurant Row
Multifamilybiz
February 3, 2023
For more than 30 years, Related Midwest has been an industry leader in community commitment and routinely sets the bar for measurable equity, diversity and inclusion standards on all of its projects. The company is deeply committed to improving neighborhoods, creating sustainable opportunities for small businesses and community residents, and building inspirational places and homes for all. Related Midwest’s business model is built on partnership with minority- and women-owned firms as well as mentorship of small minority- and women-owned businesses as they launch and grow. The firm is a founding partner in HIRE360, a first-of-its-kind community partnership designed to expand professional development and employment opportunities in the trades.
Commentary: Homogeneity on corporate boards is a blind spot
Crain's Chicago Business
January 17, 2023
At Hire360, the organization I lead, we strive for board and staff diversity that reflects the world around us—and the individuals we serve. We couldn’t do our work to increase opportunities in the trades or find innovative ways to solve people’s challenges if some of us hadn’t experienced those challenges ourselves. Another example is the Chicago Transit Board, the governing arm of the CTA, which mirrors the diversity of the city it serves. It makes one wonder how much more successful—and in touch with their customers—Fortune 500 companies would be if they followed the same approach.
Hire360 helps connect minorities with construction jobs
FOX 32 Chicago
January 14, 2023
HIRE360 looks to help women and minorities master the skills they need to land high-paying construction jobs. The program is a partnership with trade unions, developers and general contractors in Chicago with a common goal of diversifying the construction industry.
2022
Pride Pipe & Supply Makes History as First Black-Owned Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Company In the Midwest
Chicago Citizen Newspaper
December 21, 2022
“With the support of HIRE360, an organization designed to expand professional development and employment
opportunities in the trades, and Related Midwest, a founding partner of HIRE360, Pride established a
partnership
with Trane for commercial services. Pride has more than 25 years of experience working on large-scale
projects
in Chicago and across the Midwest.”
First Black-owned HVAC company in Midwest to launch
WGN Channel 9
December 12, 2022
“With the help of HIRE360, an organization that works to expand professional development and employment
opportunities in trade and Related Midwest, a founding partner of HIRE 360, Pride Pipe & Supply was able
to
partner with Trane, a world leader in air conditioning systems, services and solutions.”
Philly's Everybody Builds seeks to replicate Chicago success
The Philadelphia Tribune
November 26, 2022
“In September, The Philadelphia Tribune reported that a coalition of developers, corporations, labor unions
and
trade groups is launching an initiative called “Everybody Builds,” in Philadelphia, modeled after HIRE360.”
South Loop Job Training Center Wants To Get More Black And Brown Residents Into Construction
Block Club Chicago
November 16, 2022
“Construction is underway on the 40,000-square-foot HIRE360 Training and Business Development Center, which
will
take over a former shipping warehouse at 2520 S. State St.”
Bally's Chicago Comes to Project Labor Agreement
PR Newswire
October 17, 2022
“We are also committed to inclusivity and our partnerships with the CCBT, Chicago Federation of Labor, and
Hire360 will ensure our workforce will reflect the rich diversity of the city.”
Program Helps Chicago Ex-Con Turn Life Around, Begin Career in Construction
NBC 5 Chicago, Sandra Torres
September 15, 2022
“Rudy Morales’ passion for construction work led him to be part of the group that will build the Obama
Presidential Center. Through HIRE360, an organization that helps prepare and train people to obtain jobs in
construction. He was able to join the Carpenter’s Apprenticeship program.”
Wintrust Business Lunch 8/30/22: Stocks fall again, return to office plans, and preparing for a career in the skilled trades
WGN Radio, Pete Zimmerman
August 30, 2022
McHugh Construction named Outstanding Majority Contractor of the Year
REjournals
June 6, 2022
“In addition to the partnerships forged with minority contractors, McHugh
Construction is
also committed to connecting minorities and women with careers in the trades through its active role in
HIRE360. McHugh Construction is a founding member of the nonprofit organization, which is a partnership
of
some of the city’s largest developers, contractors and trade unions. Meagher also serves on the
organization’s board of directors.“
Investment in Hire360 Job Training Center
Lawndale News
April 21, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja
Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s
new
training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. The HIRE360 Training & Business
Development Center, a 40,000-square-foot space supported by $2 million in state funding and $1 million of
federal funds, will include conference and meeting spaces, networking and education, working space for 37
trades, a playroom and parents center for working professionals, two commercial training kitchens, retail
space
for diverse suppliers, event space and more.”
HIRE360 Training and Development Center Announced in South Loop
Chicago Defender
April 20, 2022
“State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) stood alongside Governor JB Pritzker and others Monday to announce
a $3
million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop
neighborhood.
It previously received $550,000 in funding through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.”
The Afternoon Show
WVON-AM
April 19, 2022
2:30
pm – 4:30
pm – 5:30 pm
“State and federal funding will be used to help pay for a new HIRE360 training development center in
Chicago.
Governor JB Pritzker and other unveiled the $3 million dollar investment into the new facility.”
Raja Krishnamoorthi secures $1 million funding for Illinois’ Hire360
West Suburban Journal
April 19, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360, Congressman Raja
Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders this week to announce a $3 million investment in
HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”
Raja Krishnamoorthi secures $1 million funding for Illinois’ Hire360
The American Bazaar
April 19, 2022
“Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi joined Illinois Governor J B Pritzker, to announce a $3
million
investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. The
HIRE360
Training & Business Development Center, a 40,000-square-foot space supported by $2 million in state
funding
and $1 million of federal funds secured by Krishnamoorthi secured, according to a press release.”
New HIRE360 small-business development center receives $3 million investment
Chicago Sun-Times
April 18, 2022
“Gov. J.B. Pritzker gathered alongside Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and local business leaders Monday to
celebrate a
$3 million investment for a new Training and Business Development Center on the Near South Side that will
support the growth of small businesses throughout Chicago. It’s the next big step for HIRE360, which since
2019
has worked to help underrepresented populations, such as women and people of color, to scale up their
businesses
and find work and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and hospitality sectors.”
New HIRE360 small-business development center receives $3 million investment
Young Gazzate
April 19, 2022
“Gov. J.B. Pritzker gathered alongside Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and local business leaders Monday to
celebrate a
$3 million investment for a new Training and Business Development Center on the Near South Side that will
support the growth of small businesses throughout Chicago. It’s the next big step for HIRE360, which since
2019
has worked to help underrepresented populations, such as women and people of color, to scale up their
businesses
and find work and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and hospitality sectors.”
Today In The Culture, April 19, 2022
New City
April 19, 2022
“Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders at HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate
its
future opening… The center will be a space for industry leaders, contractors, sub-contractors, developers,
organized labor and apprentices to come together to ensure that our city’s future is inspired by
communities…
The center will include conference and meeting rooms, networking and education opportunities, specific
spaces
for thirty-seven trades, a playroom and parents center for working professionals, two commercial training
kitchens, retail space for diverse suppliers and event space.”
Bruce St James
WLS
April
19, 2022
6
am – 8
am
“Illinois lawmakers celebrating 3 million dollars in funding for a new training and business development
center
located in the South Loop neighborhood focusing on women and minorities. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi
says
the center’s focus is on skills-based education.”
Morning Edition (Chicago)
WBEZ
April 19, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker was on hand in the South Loop neighborhood today where the center will open later this
year. The HIRE360 center is backed by 3 million dollars in state and federal funding.”
The John Howell Show
WLS-ABC
April 18, 2022
“Illinois lawmakers announced today 3 million dollars in funding for a new training business development
center
in Chicago to help women and minorities. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi says the center’s focus is on
skills-based education. The 40,000 sq foot HIRE360 building includes conference and meeting room spaces for
trades, event space and more.”
Chicago's Progressive Talk - Live Local & Progress
WCPT-AM
April 18, 2022
“Today Governor Pritzker announced a 3 million dollar investment in the HIRE360 job training center. It’s in
the
South Loop and it’s a training and business development center.”
Here and Now (Chicago)
WBEZ
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker was on hand in the South Loop neighborhood today where the center will open later this
year. The HIRE360 center is backed by 3 million dollars in state and federal funding.”
Pritzker announces $3 Million investment in HIRE360 Job Training Center
WAND
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker announces a $3 million investment in HIRE360’s new training and development center in
Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. Pritzker was joined by representatives from the Chicago Federation of
Labor,
Hire360, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders on Monday to share in
the
announcement.”
$3M to assist Chicago entrepreneurs in the trades
WGN
April 18, 2022
“A new training and business development center is coming to downtown Chicago, and it’s being backed by $3
million in combined state and federal government funding. Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders
at
HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate its future opening.”
$3M to assist Chicago entrepreneurs in the trades
Spot On Illinois
April 18, 2022
“A new training and business development center is coming to downtown Chicago, and it’s being backed by $3
million in combined state and federal government funding. Governor J.B. Pritzker joined other local leaders
at
HIRE360’s new 40,000 square-foot center to celebrate its future.”
Gov. Pritzker Announces $3 Million Investment in Hire360 Job Training Center
The Southland Journal
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker today joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360,
Congressman
Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in
HIRE360’s
new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”
Gov. Pritzker Announces $3 Million Investment in HIRE360 Job Training Center
EIN
April 18, 2022
“Governor JB Pritzker today joined representatives from the Chicago Federation of Labor, Hire360,
Congressman
Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), and other state and local leaders to announce a $3 million investment in
HIRE360’s
new training and development center in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.”
A. Philip Randolph Museum announces $30 million expansion
Chicago
Sun-Times
April 15, 2022
“The Community Economic Development Program announced Friday will expand the Museum 44, the Green
Initiatives
and the A. Philip Randolph Advocacy and Training programs; create a hospitality district called “Randolph’s
Way;” and establish a business corridor called Pullman Porters Row. “This is going to be a Black labor
district
where we elevate the stories of Black legends,” said David Peterson, president of the museum. “People will
be
able to get training for jobs, we’re going to work hand in hand with the unions so we can get things done.”
The
training will be done in partnership with the Chicago Federation of Labor, IBEW Local 134
and Hire360.”
Chicago has plenty of job opportunities in the construction trades
Chicago
Sun-Times
February 2, 2022
“At HIRE360, we are working to address this lack of awareness. Our recruiters work with individuals
interested
in the trades to identify their challenges, goals and interests. We explore the dozens of different
construction
trades and work with our union partners to help candidates apply for apprenticeships.”
PAC Leaders seeks to empower trade workers, further careers
Mass
Transit
February 1, 2022
“Melvin Henley from PAC Leaders talks about building the Chicago Fire exhibit at the Chicago History Museum
and
how they help trade workers.”
CTA wraps up Red-Purple Bypass, begins North Belmont Red-Purple Reconstruction project
Mass
Transit
January 25, 2022
“CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies, HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, to
recruit economically disadvantaged candidates for career opportunities related to RPM and other large
projects.
Additional workforce events and programs have included professional career opportunity events with local
contractors and trade unions, as well as a webinar series to educate Chicago Public School high school
students
about the construction industry and entering the building trades as a profession post-high school.”
As Infrastructure Money Pours In, Construction Companies Prepare To Deal With Unintended Consequences
BisNow
International
January 25, 2022
“To address long-term labor concerns, McHugh Construction is working with subcontractors, unions and
organizations such as HIRE360, a Chicago-area not-for-profit that aims to help youth secure opportunities in
the
construction trades.”
RPM program enters next phase with start of Belmont-Cornelia track reconstruction
StreetsBlog
Chicago
January 25, 2022
“While the RPM program has caused some inconvenience for residents and merchants – particularly the closure
of
the Lawrence and Berwyn stations since May 16 – the city is touting the economic benefits of the project.
Officials said the CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies, HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce
Partnership, to recruit low-income residents for construction jobs.”
2021
The Afternoon Show - Oct. 13, 2021
WVON-AM
October 13, 2021
“There is so much to talk about today. Coming up soon, we’re going
to
be having a conversation with Ms. Chynna Hampton at HIRE360. We’re going to tell you folks how to look
at
getting a good job, getting training for good jobs. So if you’re looking to change your lifestyle you
definitely do not want to miss the next segment.”
Earn While You Learn
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
October 1, 2021
“An apprenticeship offers a path to a career in the trades.”
Illinois Playbook - Sept 29, 2021
Politico
September 29, 2021
“Barack and Michelle Obama broke ground on their Obama Presidential Center Tuesday, linking their deeply
personal connections to Chicago’s South Side to the site they hope will transform the community and change
political discourse ‘nationally and internationally.'”
$500,000 gift to support diversity in architectural engineering
PennState
September 22, 2021
“Clayco Rising has also collaborated with numerous organizations created to support people from groups
underrepresented in engineering and construction, including HIRE360, the Federation of Women Contractors and
the
National Society of Black Engineers.”
Workforce equity initiatives help boost small, women- and minority-owned companies like mine
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
September 17, 2021
“The owner of a growing construction business tapped nonprofit HIRE360 to find the skilled talent needed to
scale up.”
Hire360 offering apprenticeships for aspiring trade workers
FOX
32
Chicago
September 6, 2021
“Don Biernacki, president of Related Midwest, talks about their career opportunities for future generations
of
trade workers looking to grow their skills.”
Chicagoland Chamber Of Commerce: JPMorgan Chase Commits $150 Million To Chicago's South And West Sides To Advance Racial Equity
Patch
July 8, 2021
“JPMorgan Chase announced a new $150 million, five-year commitment
in
philanthropic capital and low-cost loans to Chicago’s South and West sides.“
JPMorgan Chase Commits $150 million to Chicago’s South and West Sides.
Chicago
Defender
June 18, 2021
“‘Business has a responsibility to help solve challenges facing the customers and communities it serves, and
that includes addressing long standing racial and economic inequities that affect far too many Chicagoans,’
said
Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO, JPMorgan Chase & Co.”
All about equity: Sterling Bay builds connections to minority firms
Chicago
Sun-Times
May 10, 2021
“Hire360’s executive director, Jay Rowell, was enthused about Williams’ involvement with Sterling Bay,
saying it
should help some companies deal with their No. 1 concern: access to capital.”
Culinary apprenticeship program prepares students for a career in the hospitality industry
Chicago
Citizen
Newspaper
May 5, 2021
“UNITE HERE Local 1 represents hospitality workers throughout Chicago and Northwest Indiana. HIRE360 is a
nonprofit that connects underserved minority businesses and communities with jobs in the building trades.
Jay
Rowell, executive director of HIRE360, said the state of Illinois allocated the funding for the program in
early
2020, but due to COVID-19, the roll out of the program was delayed. ‘We’ve been talking to a number of the
employers who are involved with UNITE HERE and the culinary program and we all agreed that this is a good
time
to start the training because there’s a lot of opportunity in hospitality right now,’ Rowell said.”
Donald Dew: Legend & Pioneer Award / Neighborhood Enhancement Grants / Culinary Apprentice Class / If Not Justice Nor Mercy, Then What?
TBDNEWS
April 27, 2021
“First Culinary Apprentice Class – UNITE HERE, Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI), HIRE360, Metropolitan
Pier
and Exposition Authority (MPEA) and SAVOR announced the first-ever UHCHI Culinary Apprenticeship Class in
preparation of the return of hospitality. The eight-week program kicked-off on Monday, April 19 and serves a
diverse group of students, many of whom had been laid off from their jobs due to the COVID-19
pandemic.”
See who's announcing Bears draft selections
Chicago
Bears
News
April 26,
2021
“Davis also operates his own foundation, A Saturday Place, an academic enrichment program for third and
fourth
grade Chicago public school students; and is a board member for Hire360, a non-profit that helps Chicagoans
land
trade jobs.”
Chicago Announces First Culinary Apprenticeship Class at McCormick Place
Lawndale
News
April
22, 2021
“UNITE HERE Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI), HIRE360, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority
(MPEA)
and SAVOR announced the first-ever UHCHI Culinary Apprenticeship Class in preparation of the return of
hospitality. The eight-week program kicked off Monday and served a diverse group of students, many of whom
had
been laid off from their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
CTA’s RPM Project to begin first major phase of reconstruction of four Red Line stations and track between Lawrence and Bryn Mawr
Mass
Transit
Magazine
April
21, 2021
“The CTA has taken a conscientious and intentional approach to transforming large-scale megaprojects like
the
RPM Phase One Project into opportunities for Chicagoans. CTA works with two workforce assistance agencies,
HIRE360 and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, to recruit economically disadvantaged candidates for
career
opportunities related to RPM and other large projects.”
CATANZARA: CHAUVIN'S TACTICS WERE NOT ACCEPTABLE — NEWMAN’s STOCK PORTFOLIO — HOSPITALS FILL UP
Politico
April
21, 2021
“Getting ready for the hospitality industry’s return: ‘The eight-week culinary program includes McCormick
Place
cooks who were laid off at the beginning of the pandemic,’ by Sun-Times’ Grace Asiegbu.”
Getting ready for the hospitality industry’s return
Chicago
Sun-Times
April
19, 2021
“COVID-19 devastated the hospitality industry, leaving many without jobs,” said Jay Rowell, executive
director
of HIRE360. “We are proud to advocate for UHCHI, which reflects the comeback of the hospitality industry and
the
immediate need for talent to fill a surge in jobs.” HIRE360, a nonprofit that connects underserved minority
businesses and communities to jobs in the building trades, applied for the apprenticeship grant to recruit
for
and fund the training.”
Culinary apprenticeship helping Chicago kitchens return to pre-pandemic state
WGN
April
19, 2021
“An amalgamation among Unite Here Chicago Hospitality Institute, Hire 360, McPier and Savor are starting the
first-ever apprenticeship class. When students graduate, each will have the main ingredients needed to walk
into
any top-notch Chicago kitchen ready to go.”
CBS2 Chicago Hospitality Clip
CBS2 Chicago
April 19, 2021
“Some students are getting special training in the culinary field starting today. An 8-week culinary
apprenticeship class is underway at McCormick Place, students will learn skills to get a job when the
hospitality industry eventually bounces back.”
Culinary student apprentices prepare for return of hospitality industry after laid off due to pandemic
ABC 7 Chicago
April
19, 2021
“A culinary apprenticeship class is kicking off in Chicago in preparation for the eventual return of
the
city’s hospitality industry. Culinary students and others in the business are sharing their hopes for the
hospitality industry in a post-pandemic world.”
WBBM Chicago Hospitality Clip
WBBM Newsradio
April 19,
2021
“As Chicago’s restaurant industry emerges from COVID-19 shutdowns and restrictions, a new apprenticeship
program
kicked off Monday at McCormick Place. Alfredo Contreras learned how to make chicken stock during his first
class. The 24-year-old from Logan Square has worked for Levy Restaurants, although the pandemic put a lid on
things for awhile.”
WGN Chynna Hampton Interview
WGN TV
April 1, 2021
“HIRE360 is a non-profit that connects community members with careers in the trades, focusing on finding
trade
careers for minorities and women, especially in underserved neighborhoods. Chynna Hampton, Director of
Workforce
Development, spoke about some multi-million-dollar projects, including the Obama Presidential Center, that
the
group is recruiting for in Chicago. Hear how you can apply and what they’re looking for to get hired.”
HIRE360 Recruiting in Chicago
WGN TV
April 1, 2021
“HIRE360 is a non-profit that connects community members with careers in the trades, focusing on finding
trade
careers for minorities and women, especially in underserved neighborhoods. Chynna Hampton, Director of
Workforce
Development, spoke about some multi-million-dollar projects, including the Obama Presidential Center, that
the
group is recruiting for in Chicago. Hear how you can apply and what they’re looking for to get hired.”
The Obama Presidential Center continues to follow thru with diversifying its construction workforce and 'create a diverse pipeline of talent'
Archinect
March
31, 2021
“Moore also connected with Chynna Hampton, director of workforce development at HIRE360, another
organization
collaborating with the Foundation. ‘I think the construction industry already is pushing toward that
diversity
initiative,’ shared Hampton, ‘but this sticks the pin in it to make sure we’re pushing it forward and say it
doesn’t stop here.'”
Adelante Chicago
Adelante
Chicago
March 27, 2021
“Building back after the pandemic, HIRE360 is introducing new opportunities for many underserved communities
here in Chicago. Have you heard of HIRE360? The organization is laying out some of the programs meant to
help
underserved communities.”
Chicago area manufacturing workers in demand as companies ramp up production
ABC
7
Chicago
March 26,
2021
“Winchester said M&R is still hiring right now for careers that don’t require four year college degrees,
pay
well, and can put anyone on a path to growth. “If they can do it, I can do it,” Salazar said. “That’s how
I’ve
always been. I wouldn’t choose anything else. Manufacturing, doing hands-on work, has always been my life.”
To
learn more about open manufacturing positions available, you can visit Away Staffing and M & R Print. To
learn more about how to train in manufacturing, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership and Hire360 Chicago can
help.”
Adelante Chicago Facebook
Adelante
Chicago
on
Facebook
March 25, 2021
“And building back after the pandemic, HIRE360 is introducing new opportunities for many underserved
communities
here in Chicago.”
HIRE360 Wants to Level the Playing Field in the Construction Industry
Chicago
Defender
March
23, 2021
“It has been predicted that the construction industry has the potential to quickly jump-start the economy
post-COVID and Hire360 is deliberately working to invest in minority, Black, and women-owned companies to
support the Chicago workforce. Hire360 is an innovative construction industry partnership between
developers,
general contractors, and labor unions to build an ecosystem that creates careers and supports business
ventures.
Even amid a pandemic, the construction industry is one of the few sectors that have always been able to
safely
work and social distance so the impact of Hire360 has increased substantially.”
#BuyDiverse talks to Chicago United’s Tiffany Hamel Johnson and Hire 360’s Jay Rowell
WGN
Radio
March
18, 2021
“Then, Hire360’s Executive Director Jay Rowell talks about what they do and the upcoming Chicago Developers
Conference, a joint event with Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council. Hire360’s Executive Director
Jay
Rowell and ChicagoMDC’s J. Vincent Williams talk about the mission of both organizations and the
ground-breaking
virtual conference their organizations are hosting.”
Obama Foundation launches construction workforce training and hiring initiative for presidential center
The Architects Newspaper
March
15, 2021
“Virtual job training sessions, hosted in partnership with Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, Chicago
Women
in Trades (CWIT), HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and St. Paul’s Community
Development Ministries, will be held in the coming months in order to “ recruit new tradespeople, address
their
barriers to entry, work with labor unions to assign them to apprenticeships, and place them on projects
across
the city,” according to the Foundation.”
Mayor Lighfoot Announces Initiatives To Support Small Businesses
Patch
March
12,
2021
“Technical assistance to help businesses navigate the PPP application and loan forgiveness process will be
provided initially by InUrban Strategies, LLC and Hire360, with additional technical assistance providers
for
PPP and 7(a) to be named later. The $25 million fund will allow eligible applicants to access Paycheck
Protection Program loans and SBA 7(a) eligible loans issued by CRF.”
Where to apply for Obama Center construction job training: Programs target South and West Side residents
Chicago
Sun-Times
March
11, 2021
“The foundation has pledged $850,000 to partner organizations dealing with workforce development — Chicago
Women
in Trades, HIRE360, Revolution Workshop and St. Paul’s Community Development Ministries — to cover costs for
getting people into the training pipeline”
Obama Foundation Launches Workforce Initiative to Build the Obama Presidential Center
Chicago
Defender
March
11, 2021
“The announcement of the OPC Construction Workforce Initiative kicks off what will be a months-long effort
to
host virtual job training across the South and West sides in partnership with Chicago Regional Council of
Carpenters, Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT), HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and
St.
Paul’s Community Development Ministries. This effort targets those who have previously been left out of the
industry – including young people, returning citizens, and women. The goal is to recruit new tradespeople,
address their barriers to entry, work with labor unions to assign them to apprenticeships, and place them on
projects across the city.”
Mayor Lightfoot Offers Support to Small, Minority- and Women-Owned Contractors
Chicago
Defender
March
11, 2021
“Technical assistance to help businesses navigate the PPP application and loan forgiveness process will be
provided initially by InUrban Strategies, LLC and Hire360, with additional technical assistance providers
for
PPP and 7(a) to be named later. The $25 million fund will allow eligible applicants to access Paycheck
Protection Program loans and SBA 7(a) eligible loans issued by CRF. The application process is open
now.”
Obama Center Will Be Built By Some Who’ve Long Been Locked Out Of Construction Jobs
WBEZ
March
11, 2021
“Chynna Hampton, director of workforce development at HIRE360, said the OPC will be a catalyst for diversity
on
future projects such as the recently announced Michael Reese project, the site of a former hospital in
Bronzeville. ‘I think the construction industry already is pushing toward that diversity initiative, but
this
sticks the pin in it to make sure we’re pushing it forward and say it doesn’t stop here,’ Hampton
said.”
Here’s how the Obama Presidential Center aims to meet its diversity goals
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
March
10, 2021
“The Obama Presidential Center is partnering with workforce organizations including the Chicago Regional
Council
of Carpenters, Chicago Women in Trades, HIRE360, IBEW-NECA Technical Institute, Revolution Workshop, and St.
Paul’s Community Development Ministries. Interested applicants can apply here.”
Not every job requires a four-year degree
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
February 12,
2021
“A new nonprofit, Hire360, helps African Americans, Latinos and women navigate admission, which can be
tricky
because programs aren’t scheduled on a regular basis like a college semester. Sessions are opened when there
is
demand from contractor employers. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalency, a driver’s
license
and access to transportation, and must also pass an aptitude test that demonstrates math skills and spatial
reasoning.”
Ep #62: Strengthening Trades Through Diversity Development with Jay Rowell of HIRE360
Germaine
Law
Firm
January
12, 2021
“Jay Rowell of HIRE360 joins the show today to discuss all things recruitment, training, job placement,
diversity, and more.”
Real estate pros aim to diversify the ranks of developers
Chicago
Sun-Times
January
4, 2021
“‘I want to show people that you can do this work in your neighborhood and make a living,’ developer Leon
Walker
said.”
2020
Developers have a unique opportunity to contribute to equity
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
December
18, 2020
“It’s time to reimagine inclusion outside of workforce and small business support, starting with the supply
chain, says a Related Midwest exec.”
COVID-19 has devastated Chicago real estate, but it’s amplified calls for equity. Will 2021 be a year of progress on the South and West sides?
Chicago
Tribune
December
17, 2020
“Next year is setting up as quite the balancing act for commercial real estate and development in
Chicago.”
HIRE360 Annual Report 2020
HIRE360
December 10,
2020
Annual Report, 2020.
Builders, labor unions open doors for small contractors
Chicago
Sun-Times
November
30, 2020
“Hire360 provides entrepreneurs, particularly minorities and women, the tools to manage a feast-or-famine
business.”
Local Programs Boost Diversity in the Trades
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
October 9,
2020
“The demand for tradespeople is expected to grow, and minorities and women represent an untapped pool of
labor.
“Chicago is at a crossroads,” says Jay Rowell, executive director at HIRE360.”
HIRE360, CTA modernization project connect new and out-of-work tradespeople with jobs
ABC
7
Chicago
June 11,
2020
“HIRE360 helps connect unemployed tradespeople from all over the city with work.”
Even apprenticeships are hard to come by for women and minorities
Crain’s
Chicago
Business
February
27, 2020
“A few big firms in Chicago are taking steps to diversify their workforces through apprentice programs that
break down color and gender barriers to midlevel jobs. But federal data shows those are still the
exception.”
First of its kind industry and labor partnership announces Hire360
Chicago
Crusader
December
27, 2019
“Unique program will advance opportunities for community members and local businesses in manufacturing,
construction, hospitality and the professional services industries.”
Chicago Contractors, Developers, Unions Launch HIRE360 Effort to Bring Minorities, Women into Construction
ENR
Midwest
December
11, 2019
“Group has $1.7-million Budget for 2020, will offer everything from counseling to boots for
applicants.”