County Commissioner and passionate supporter of the Gainesville Job Corps Center, Alena Lawson, sent the below “Letter to the Editor” to the Guardian and Gainesville Sun. The letter was printed in both newspapers:

http://www.gainesville.com/article/20121219/GUARDIAN/121219548

During these challenging economic times, I am glad that the Gainesville Job Corps Center is still a high-performing center that partners with our local leaders, community groups and businesses to create jobs and invest dollars in the local economy.

Amidst the rumors that the Gainesville Job Corps Center is shutting down or losing its contract, the staff is still committed to assisting at-promise youth with acquiring their high school diplomas, GEDs, vocational training and driver’s license.

I visit the center often and I am able to witness firsthand the remarkable services offered to the youth. I ask that other local elected officials and community leaders join me in supporting the Job Corps by contacting your state and congressional leaders in support of this very worthwhile job creating program.

The closing of this facility would be devastating to our local community.

Alena K. Lawson,

Newberry