MARKEIS' MOMENT
Tennessee is facing a labor shortage due to a growing skills gap. Peer Power bridges this divide by providing certification opportunities and hands-on training through our workforce development program.
Our New Initiative Took Memphis By Storm
Through our workforce development initiatives, we're creating pathways to sustainable careers and addressing Tennessee's critical labor needs.
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Community Partnerships
Let's Talk About Markeis
Real people, real transformation. See how our programs are changing lives and building Tennessee's workforce.
Markeis Ballenger
Forklift & Warehousing Certification Graduate
Before: High school graduate working minimum wage jobs
After: Certified professional with a 3-month apprenticeship at American Material Handling
"I knew traditional college wasn't for me, but I still wanted a career path. Peer Power showed me that skilled trades were a viable option and helped me get the training I needed to succeed."
As a member of the Beta Cohort in Peer Power's Workforce Development Program, Markeis gained valuable skills and certification that led to meaningful employment with benefits. His story represents the potential for addressing both individual career goals and Tennessee's labor shortage.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 9% of Black or African American individuals work in natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations.
Urgent: Help Us Close the Gap
Last year, the MSCS superintendent's sudden decision not to renew our contract was a surprise. Despite this, we had already invested $260,000 to recruit, train, and prepare 130 Success Coaches for Memphis-Shelby County Schools. To uphold our commitment to students and staff, we used cash reserves.
Fiscal year ends June 30th
The needs are great
We're addressing Tennessee's labor shortage by creating pathways to skilled trades for individuals who may not pursue traditional college education. Our focus is on building careers, not just jobs, with particular emphasis on underrepresented communities.
Skills Training
Industry-recognized certification programs
Apprenticeships
Hands-on experience with industry partners
Mentorship
Guidance from industry professionals
Job Placement
Connections to employment opportunities
The Challenge We're Addressing
Tennessee faces a growing skills gap despite low unemployment rates
Employers struggle to find adequately trained workers
Only 9% of Black or African American individuals work in skilled trades
Many high school graduates lack clear career pathways
"By addressing both the skills gap and opportunity gap, we're building a stronger workforce and more equitable future for Tennessee."
Marlon Ross
Workforce Development Director, Peer Power
Hear the story from the source…
The video shows the relationship that made this all possible. Aliyanna, a former Success Coach turned Graduate Assistant for Peer Power, knew the opportunities that her younger brother would have if he participated in Peer Power’s Workforce Development.
“Markeis Ballenger exemplifies what we hope to find in our team members. Through Peer Power’s Workforce Program, he came to us with certification credentials and a genuine eagerness to apply his skills. What started as an apprenticeship quickly demonstrated his value to our operation, and we were thrilled to bring him on as a full-time employee with benefits.”
— Josh Lackie, Owner & CEO, American Material Handling
Help Us Close the Gap
Your donation helps us provide training, certification, and career opportunities for individuals like Markeia. Together, we can build Tennessee's workforce and create pathways to sustainable careers.
Your Impact
$5,000 funds
Two Success Coaches for a full year
$2,500 supports
One Success Coach and provides program materials
$1,000 helps
Train five Success Coaches in specialized skills
$500 provides
Essential resources for ten program participants
$250 supports
One student through a credential-earning program
"Our fiscal year ending on June 30th, we face a funding gap of $102,398 that must be closed to ensure our vital work continues without interruption. What makes this especially urgent is the remarkable impact we're achieving. Peer Power recently celebrated a milestone demonstrating our approach's power: 100% of participants received industry credentials, and 100% graduated from high school. These aren't just statistics—they represent young people whose lives have been transformed through skills that lead to sustainable careers and economic independence."
Katherine Kaelin
Chair of the Board, Peer Power
