Open Door - Workforce Equity Initiative

Welcome to WEI!

Open Door WEI Workforce Equity Initiative Lincoln Land Commu

Apply now to WEI

The Workforce Equity Initiative, funded through an Illinois Community College Board grant, aims to serve 150 low-income students, 75% of whom must be African American.

What we provide

WEI provides free, short-term education/training programs designed to help participants gain employment in high-wage and in-demand occupations. Students receive supports, including compensation to help cover basic costs while receiving the training.

Programs

WEI student support services

As a WEI participant, you can receive:

  • Free tuition and fees
  • Books and materials
  • A stipend
  • Transportation assistance
  • Child care assistance
  • Waiver for prior unpaid fees owed to LLCC
  • Loanable laptop and Wi-Fi hotspots
  • Tutoring
  • Essential and employability skills training
  • Job placements

Eligibility

In order to participate in the WEI program, you must:

  • Reside within the LLCC district
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets certain eligibility requirements
  • Be low income (i.e. qualify for federal financial aid; receive SNAP benefits, Medicaid or TANF)
  • Meet requirements of selected WEI program

Steps to enroll in WEI

Fall 2023 applications: Pending program funding availability

Please note: The WEI application will gather potential WEI recipient information for the new upcoming grant cycle. This information will not be reviewed until grant funding has been secured for fall 2023.

Ready to apply? Complete the following: