Urban Connection Issue 2 Urban League Connection Volume 2 | Page 50

Starbucks Create Local Jobs

Working with the community leadership of Ferguson , Starbucks launches a longterm effort to create local jobs , provide training opportunities for youth , and invest in local minority-owned businesses New store marks a key milestone in Starbucks ongoing commitment to open stores in at least 15 diverse , low- to medium-income communities by 2018

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ERGUSON , MO ( April 29 , 2016 ) – Starbucks ( NASDAQ : SBUX ) today unveiled its first store in Ferguson , Missouri as part of a national plan to provide local jobs , create training opportunities for youth , and support efforts to rebuild and revitalize communities . Starbucks plans to open similar stores in at least 15 low- to medium-income communities across the U . S . by 2018 . With an estimated 5.5 million young Americans not in school or at work , the majority of whom live in some of the country ’ s most diverse , yet underserved communities , Starbucks aims to make a long-term impact by opening stores that will help provide a tangible boost to the local economy and bring meaningful jobs . “ We ’ ve long considered how we can help deliver social impact in ways that drive our business forward ,” said Rodney Hines , Starbucks director of Community Investments for U . S . Retail Operations . “ We have always seen investments in the communities where Starbucks partners live and serve as investments in our business and brand . As we got to know the Ferguson community over the last year , we heard incredible stories of strength , empathy and understanding . We also heard loud and clear the need for business leadership and investment in the form of new jobs and training opportunities , particularly for young people . That ’ s why we are proud to be here with the