ELGIN — Thanks to support from State Senator Cristina Castro, Elgin Community College will receive over $260,000 in funding through the state’s Restore, Reinvest, Renew program to support workforce readiness, career training and other economic development programs geared toward underserved communities.
“This program plays a role in ensuring equity in all Illinois communities,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Every Illinoisan, regardless of where they live, deserves the resources they need to build a career and live a fruitful life.”
The R3 program, administered by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, aims to fund programs in Illinois communities that serve residents in designated eligible R3 zones. R3 grants invest in organizations that support five core areas: community reentry, economic development, civil legal aid, violence prevention and youth development.
In Castro’s district, Elgin Community College is set to receive $261,920 for economic development-focused programming. The grant will support ECC’s ability to expand training, build workforce readiness and connect students and families with in-demand credentials and employment opportunities across the region.
“By investing in communities that have been left behind in the past, we begin to heal and create future success for residents,” Castro said. “This funding is more than an investment – it is a step toward dismantling the systemic barriers that burden our community.”
Since 2021, the program has awarded over $290 million to organizations across the state. Learn more about the program here.
