Trinity Health Of New England Supports Grounds for Change Workforce Training Program
June 2, 2026Categories: Events
On May 27, the North Hartford Partnership held a ribbon cutting event at the historic Swift Factory to celebrate the opening of Grounds for Change, a 12-week paid workforce training program for young people ages 16-24. Trinity Health Of New England, the Max Cares Foundation and Comcast serve as sponsors to help launch the program.
Carolyn Alessi, Regional Director, Community Health and Well-Being (left) speaks to attendees at the Grounds for Change ribbon cutting at the Swift Factory.
Operated as a youth-run coffee and tea service inside the Swift Factory, Grounds for Change provides hands-on training in entrepreneurship, sustainability, coffee sourcing and roasting, financial literacy, marketing and small-business operations. Graduates earn a stipend, a professional certificate, and ongoing mentorship and career support.
“Grounds for Change demonstrates what’s possible when health systems, community leaders and residents come together in pursuit of equity – intentionally engaging and investing in young people,” said Carolyn Alessi, Regional Director, Community Health and Well-Being, Trinity Health Of New England. “Saint Francis Hospital is proud to serve as a placement site for career readiness.”
The North Hartford Partnership has transformed the historic Swift Factory into a vibrant community and economic hub, supporting more than 20 small and minority-owned businesses, workforce training programs, youth initiatives and community gathering spaces in the heart of Hartford’s North End. Learn more on the North Hartford Partnership website HERE.