2 Hartford Nonprofits Helping Young People After High School Get Major Funding

Bank of America

HARTFORD, CT — A prominent bank's charitable arm has chosen two Hartford-based nonprofits to become beneficiaries for their causes that help young people after high school.

Bank of America has named Hartford Promiseand ReadyCT as its "2025 Neighborhood Builders in recognition of their college and career readiness programs that prepare Connecticut’s next generation of students and young professionals for success in school and after graduation."

Totaling $400,000 in funding to support college and career readiness, each Hartford-based nonprofit will receive a $200,000 grant over two years,

Since the program’s inception, 37 nonprofits have been selected as Neighborhood Builders in Greater Hartford, with the bank investing $7.4 million in philanthropic capital into these nonprofits.

“The Neighborhood Builders program is about empowering local leaders who drive meaningful change in our communities,” said Joe Gianni, president, Bank of America Greater Hartford. “We recognize this year’s awardees, Hartford Promise and ReadyCT, for their vision and impact, and stand alongside partners like the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving in advancing educational and workforce opportunities. Together, we’re building stronger pathways for Connecticut youth."

Hartford Promise is a college scholarship and college success program for Hartford public school students.

“This Bank of America grant is a powerful vote of confidence not just in Hartford Promise but in Hartford’s young people,” said Dr. Sivan Hines, president, Hartford Promise. “It will allow us to deepen our college and career supports and ensure that more of our homegrown talent can stay, grow, and lead right here in our community.”

ReadyCT initiatives, including paid internships, career readiness bootcamps, industry mentorship, credentialing support, and post-high school transition guidance, help students bridge the gap between classroom learning and the workplace.

“ReadyCT is delivering dynamic, hands-on programming across Connecticut’s public schools so students can truly understand the full range of opportunities available to them after graduation,” said Shannon Marimón, executive director, ReadyCT. “Much of this work is rooted in bringing employers directly into classrooms to help students see what’s possible and to connect learning with real-world careers.

“While higher education remains an important path to success, students also have meaningful options through apprenticeships, credentialing, and on-the-job training. The Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Award will significantly elevate our efforts—giving us the resources to reach more students, strengthen our leadership team, and deepen our impact in communities across the state.”