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Economic Mobility
Economic Mobility

We’re helping Tidewater Gardens residents learn more, earn more and build a bright future.

People FirstUSI understands that economic mobility means more than just helping someone find a job. It’s about connecting people to living-wage and higher-wage opportunities, empowering them with financial education, supporting their small-business dreams, and helping families build generational wealth. That’s why People FirstUSI has partnered with Norfolk Works, Tidewater Community College, and more than 20 local employers to offer a wide range of employment and training opportunities in some of today’s most in-demand job sectors.

Going Up?

Economic Mobility efforts are paying off

BaselineYear 1Year 2Year 3Year 4
Average Annual Wage Income*$14,177$18,005$18,826$21,037$24,029
Full-time Employment*47%71.2%77%80.5%81.4
* Tidewater Gardens Residents Age 18-64

With Norfolk Works, small businesses can dream big

Economic mobility and inclusion are what drive Norfolk Works, an award-winning program that connects people, training and businesses so the City works better. Norfolk Works offers a whole toolbox to support small business owners, including:

  • Business training
  • Capital accumulation
  • Counseling
  • Technical assistance
  • Networking opportunities
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Thanks to TCC, residents can go anywhere.

Tidewater Community College is powering our economic-mobility efforts with innovative grants and programs that connect residents to free training in some of Virginia’s most in-demand career fields.

  • REV grants (Reemploying Virginians) – Qualifying students enjoy free training for jobs Virginia employers are eager to fill
  • “Get Skilled, Get-A-Job, Give Back” program – Students can train in high-demand fields without incurring student loan debt
  • “Dignity of Work” – Students can train for construction industry jobs in just 5-weeks FREE!
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DriveNOW Student Graduation Photo

Resident Highlight:
Yonyea Evans

“I’m looking forward to this new experience. My intentions for doing this are bigger than me. I just want to do good and help my family and support myself.”
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