Attributed to: Kate Partington, Program Officer - Young Adults and Working Families and Caregivers of Older Adults, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation
About the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is a limited life foundation that sunsets in 2035 based in Detroit and investing in Southeast Michigan and Western New York. Our portfolio, Young Adults and Working Families, is focused on creating pathways to economic mobility through middle skill middle wage jobs that do not require a 4 year degree.
Why does the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation support Workforce Matters?
We have been members since 2017! We value the network of likeminded funders, learning best practices around the country, the great conference, valuable webinars, and affinity groups. Getting to connect with other Workforce Matters members at conferences is always energizing, and we value getting to learn from each of you.
What is something in 2026 you’re excited about?
I’m excited about continuing our community college work in both regions, and really ensuring our colleges are connected to industry in a way that supports students seamlessly from education to career path. We have always invested in skilled trades training programs but it’s been interesting seeing the national conversation about the trades unfold these past 2 years, especially in the age of AI.
What’s something in the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation’s workforce grantmaking you’d like others to know about?
Grantmaking in workforce has to be adaptable and flexible. This ecosystem is constantly evolving based on federal and state priorities, industry changes, technology, etc. Being an effective workforce grantmaker means being flexible with your grantees and partners as they navigate these changes.
