Thursday, May 8, 2008
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
National Initiative Gets Funding
A $50 million, five-year national workforce development initiative received a boost yesterday during the Council on Foundations' global philanthropy summit at National Harbor.
Microsoft and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced multimillion-dollar support for the National Fund for Workforce Solution, a campaign to improve workforce development programs in urban and rural communities by connecting low-skilled adults to potential employers.
The Knight Foundation is contributing $1.35 million to support peer learning meetings and special projects. Microsoft is donating $2 million and software valued at up to $8 million, with much of the support targeted for Washington, Boston, Seattle and California's Silicon Valley.
"There is no better way to improve the economic health of our nation than to provide our citizens with training and technology skills," said Akhtar Badshah, Microsoft's senior director of community affairs.
-- Philip Rucker
NATIONAL ZOO
Park Closing Early for Event
The National Zoo will close early Friday to make way for the Guppy Gala, its annual family fundraiser.
About 4,000 people are expected for the gala, which starts at 6 p.m. and could affect rush-hour traffic in the Connecticut Avenue NW area.
The zoo plans to close some attractions to the public at noon, including the Great Ape House, Great Cats and Amazonia. The rest of the animal park will close at 4 p.m.
The Guppy Gala, sponsored by Friends of the National Zoo, includes various family activities. Tickets are available at $20 for FONZ members and $30 for nonmembers. For information, visit http://www.fonz.org/guppy.htm.
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