The Danbury American Job Center of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board Inc. (NRWIB) plans to relocate to the midtown campus of Western Connecticut State University at 181 White St. in Danbury. This announcement comes on the heels of receiving a $10,000 grant from Webster Bank.
Patrick Donnelly, NRWIB chief strategy officer, called the move to WCSU’s White Hall necessary for strengthening the organization with the community.
“This strengthens our connection to students, educators, and the regional talent pipeline,” Donnelly said. “Locating the NRWIB on a university campus creates new opportunities for collaboration, internships, and employer engagement. It positions the NRWIB and Western Connecticut State University to work more closely in preparing students and residents for in-demand careers.”
As for the Webster Bank grant, he is appreciative for the continued support from the bank.
“We are incredibly grateful to Webster Bank for this significant investment in our community and our programs,” he said. “They have been a trusted partner to the NRWIB and a strong supporter of workforce development in our region. We value their continued commitment to economic opportunity, employer engagement, and community investment.”
Donnelly added that while $10,000 may seem modest, it’s a pivotal investment for the nonprofit organization because the funds support the coordination and outreach that make employer partnerships and youth programs work.
“These funds help us stay responsive, visible, and effective across the region. Partnerships like this are essential to helping individuals achieve economic self-sufficiency,” he said.
The NRWIB serves the Greater Danbury, Waterbury and Torrington areas. Its mission is to foster economic vitality and prosperity in Northwest Connecticut by developing and maintaining a skilled workforce through strategic partnerships, tailored programs, and innovative initiatives. The NRWIB works to align the needs of job seekers and employers by equipping individuals with the skills needed for success in the region’s evolving job market.
Mayor Roberto Alves lauded the grant as another step forward as NRWIB’s American Job Center expand its presence in Downtown Danbury.
“Bringing workforce resources closer to students strengthens the connection between education, training, and real job opportunities, while helping build a stronger workforce and economy for Danbury and the entire region,” he said.
Webster Bank, a leading regional bank, is committed to supporting NRWIB’s mission to connect regional employers with qualified job seekers and provide essential workforce development services. Donnelly appreciates the bank’s commitment to corporate philanthropy that is focused on creating opportunities and building economic vitality in the communities where its employees live and work.
“The $10,000 donation reflects its belief in partnering with organizations doing valuable work for those who need it most,” he said.
The funding will support the Northwest Connecticut Regional Sector Partnerships in Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction, while expanding youth outreach through the Connecticut Youth Employment Program and other critical programs, according to Donnelly.
“Webster Bank’s investment helps the NRWIB connect employers, educators, and young people to clear, in-demand career pathways,” he added.
NRWIB offers in-person and virtual services to help people obtain employment, explore new career opportunities, and build valuable workforce skills. Some of its comprehensive support services include career counseling, career/job related training tuition assistance, job search assistance, resume and interview preparation, and CTHires registration assistance and other online resources
