Apartment Investment and Management Co. (Aimco) has announced its contribution of $1 million to Camillus House to support expanded workforce programs. After discussions with Miami’s community and civic leaders, Aimco found that despite the city’s strong job market, many residents do not possess the skills or experience to obtain better-paying jobs and reap the benefits of the growing economy.
As a major investor in South Florida, the diversified real estate investment company felt that all levels of the economic spectrum can excel and contribute to the community, which prompted the contribution to Camillus House. Founded in 1960, Camillus House was created to help homeless Cuban exiles and other hungry Miamians. As it has grown, Camillus House is now one of the largest providers of services to the most vulnerable Miami population, housing more than 1,700 people nightly in 11 residential facilities and scattered-site apartments. Programs include day center services, specialized street outreach, homeless prevention initiatives, and comprehensive workforce development and life skills programming.
“Many people experiencing homelessness want to work, but without the necessary training and skills it’s extremely difficult for them to earn enough income to move forward,” explains Hilda M. Fernandez, Camillus House CEO. “Thanks to this critical and very generous multiyear grant from Aimco, we can now expand our workforce development program to provide the guidance, support, and vocational training that can help prevent homelessness and change the lives of the great many men and women we serve throughout Miami-Dade County.”
The Camillus House Workforce Development Initiative, in partnership with Aimco, will offer trade programs operated by Florida International University and funded by Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency, an eight-week culinary certificate through the Miami-Dade College Culinary Arts Program, and employment opportunities with the Downtown Enhancement Team through the City of Miami’s Downtown Development Authority and Omni Community Redevelopment Agency.
Through the Aimco Cares program, Aimco will also sponsor scholarships for individuals in the Camillus House program to remove employment obstacles for those looking to obtain and keep a job. Job-related costs like bus passes, uniforms, classes, licensing fees and other required fees needed to gain employment will be covered by the scholarships.
“Aimco Cares’ mission is to empower the most vulnerable by giving them the tools required to improve their quality of life,” says Jennifer Johnson, Aimco’s executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “Being able to obtain and maintain higher-paying jobs is the building block for a long-term and sustainable solution for many Miami residents. As a real estate developer, it is our responsibility to give back to the communities in which we are active and passionate. Aimco is thrilled to be part of the Miami community and looks forward to future investments in the city and its residents.”
