Apply now for career readiness training

SPRINGFIELD – People interested in a career in construction can receive training and other assistance through HIRE360, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) announced Tuesday.

“With Illinois unemployment at a record low, businesses are looking for qualified candidates to fill well-paying job positions,” said Fine. “Career training could help some people stand out to potential employers.”

Chicago developers, general contractors, local labor unions and the United Way of Metro Chicago partnered to create HIRE360, a program that empowers underrepresented individuals to pursue union careers.

The program offers test preparation, funds to buy needed supplies for apprenticeships, job referrals and more assistance to those interested in union construction careers.

Although HIRE360 currently only offers job services in the construction industry, the program plans to expand to other unionized fields, like manufacturing and hospitality sectors, in the coming months.

“Going through a career training program is the first step toward a great career,” said Fine. “This kind of help could put a union job within reach.”

Interested candidates can sign up for construction trades readiness training with HIRE360 here.

Fine encourages youth in care to apply for DCFS Scholarship Program

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has begun accepting applications for the 2020 DCFS Scholarship Program, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) announced today.

“All kids deserve the opportunity to pursue their college dreams without having to worry about expenses, including those who are or have been in DCFS care,” said Fine. “This program could give a boost to the students who need this help the most.”

The DCFS Scholarship Program is open to youth who have an open DCFS case, whose cases were closed through adoption or guardianship or who aged out of care at 18 or older. Youth who are at least 16 years old and not yet 21 on March 31 may apply.

Through the program, 53 academic scholarships will be awarded to current and former youth in care for the upcoming school year. Four of these awards are reserved for the children of veterans.

Scholarship recipients will be selected based on their academic record, community and extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation and a written statement. The scholarship covers up to five consecutive years of tuition and academic fee waivers to be used at participating Illinois state community colleges and universities, a monthly grant of $537 to offset other expenses and a medical card.

“An education can open up so many new doors,” said Fine. “I hope to see lots of students take advantage of this important program.”

Applications are available at any DCFS regional office and on the DCFS website. Students or caregivers may call the DCFS Office of Education and Transition Services at 217-557-2689 or 312-814-5959 with questions about the application process or for more information.

Senator Fine stands with governor to push for affordable health care

SPRINGFIELD – In response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s State of the State address today, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) issued the following statement:

“I was heartened to hear Gov. Pritzker reaffirm his commitment to making health care affordable and accessible for all Illinoisans in his State of the State address today.

“Outrageous medical costs place life-saving prescriptions, vital procedures and even routine checkups out of reach for many Illinoisans and their families. For too long, patients have been unable to afford the care they desperately need.

“Certainly, we’ve had some recent victories, but we can do so much more. It’s time to prioritize patient health over profits.

“In the coming weeks and months of legislative session, I am eager to join the governor and my fellow legislators to make this vision into a reality.”

Senator Fine named IAPD Legislator of the Year

GLENVIEW – The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) awarded its Legislator of the Year Award to State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) at its annual conference today.

"It is such an honor to receive this award from an organization whose goal is to improve the quality of lives in our communities," said Fine. "I am grateful our communities have so much to offer to improve our lifestyles and contribute to our health and well-being."

The IAPD is a nonprofit service, research and education organization that has served park districts, forest preserves, conservation, municipal park and recreation, and special recreation agencies since 1928. The association seeks to provide outstanding park and recreation opportunities, preserve natural resources and improve the quality of life for all Illinoisans.

Every year, the IAPD recognizes a legislator for their efforts to support and expand parks and recreation opportunities in Illinois. During her time in state government, Fine has supported numerous measures to advance environmental justice across the state, including establishing the Offshore Wind Energy Economic Development Policy Task Force and declaring Sept. 7, 2019, as Great Lakes Appreciation Day.

"It is always a privilege working with the Illinois Association of Park Districts. A healthy lifestyle is a happy lifestyle, and all you do nourishes the betterment of our communities," said Fine. "Thank you for this amazing honor."