US Treasury Secretary Geithner Visits GWTP
Hails Programs and Development Plans as National Model.

October 30, 2009

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner recognized GWTP’s training programs and development plans as national models for community economic development while announcing a major increase in Federal funds for investment and low income communities across the country. Secretary Geithner visited GWTP’s training center along with state, federal and local officials on Friday, October 30th to promote the Obama administration’s expansion of the New Market’s Tax Credit Program that Greater West Town has used to help finance its Community Career Education & Economic Development Center, which is currently under construction at 500 N. Sacramento.

Secretary Geithner framed his announcement of the program’s expansion by pointing to Greater West Town’s exemplary project: “It’s very important that we have programs like this [Greater West Town] so the American people understand that we’re using their tax dollars wisely for programs that can really make a difference” for economically disadvantaged and unemployed people in today’s tough economy.

Greater West Town will transform 500 N. Sacramento into a permanent home for GWTP’s drop-out retrieval West Town Career Academy, and the Woodworking and Shipping & Receiving programs. GWTP’s vision - now well on its way to realization as renovations move ahead at the new site – also includes helping local entrepreneurs start up new job-creating enterprises by offering them affordable, energy efficient “incubator” space at the new Community Center.

With the new Center, Greater West Town will be able to significantly expand educational and economic opportunity to Chicago residents from struggling disadvantaged communities, nearly doubling the number of community residents GWTP can serve.

Public officials and community leaders also expressed strong support for the achievements of the training program staff, participants and employer partners.

Mayor Richard M. Daley, who strongly supported Alderman Burnett’s call for a major investment of City TIF funds in Greater West Town’s new Center, said, “Of all the things that I’ve done, this is one thing I’m really proud of…Because you know this organization will get the job done!”

US Congressman Danny Davis declared: “I want to congratulate Greater West Town for being one of the most exciting and most outstanding community development groups in the nation…Their outstanding and creative programming that they have done and continue to do, gives us all pride they are part of our city…Greater West Town: You are THE BEST IN THE WEST!”