FACTS Impact Grants $25,000 To UpLift OV

WHEELING - The FACTS Impact charitable foundation has gifted $25,000 to Uplift OV and the job skills programs it provides.

Rob Sincavich, chairman of FACTS Impact, on Wednesday presented the check to Kate Marshall, executive director of HoH Shares. HoH Shares administers the Uplift OV program, which helps people overcome issues they encounter when seeking employment or maintaining a job.

"FACTS Impact is a philanthropic group of current and retired businessmen whose mission is to remove barriers to employment," Sincavich explained. "As members, we make donations, then research what will be the best use of the funding. We found that Uplift OV meets that mission, and represents the best use of the funding."

Marshall called the donation "a game changer" for her organization.

Often people find that to start a job they may need to find transportation or even have food for lunch.

"We can help them purchase uniforms, shoes or whatever they need until they get that first paycheck," Marshall said.

"Then, if they are already employed and have a crisis situation like a car problem, we can help them get to work and fulfill the responsibilities of their employment."

The organization even provides them a place to shower if they need it at the Mother Jones Center, she said.

Also present for the check presentation was Virginia Loew-Shelhammer, a volunteer with HoH Shares and Uplift OV.

"I have a background in counseling," she said. "This is a chance for me to do that work and make a difference in the community."

Marshall added the investment in Uplift OV by FACTS Impact "will open meaningful doors to opportunity."

"This grant will offer our team the flexibility to create responsive and impactful strategies to provide necessary tools and skills for success in employment, training or further education," she explained. "These building blocks may seem basic to some, but a solid foundation is critical to empowerment and independence."