November 1, 2024
lindsay@westmorelandchamber.com
Non-Profit of the Month: Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc.
The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to recognize the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. (PIC) as our Non-Profit of the Month for November. For nearly four decades, PIC has been a critical resource in southwestern Pennsylvania, providing a foundation for employment, education, and workforce training. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, PIC works diligently to empower residents of Westmoreland and Fayette counties, equipping individuals and families with tools for educational achievement, career advancement, and self-sufficiency.
PIC’s reach and impact are significant, thanks to its strategic locations throughout Beaver, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties. From these offices, the organization offers diverse programs targeting youth, adults, dislocated workers, and economically disadvantaged individuals. Through an extensive network of services, PIC fosters growth and opportunity, embodying its mission to "educate, encourage, and empower" the people it serves.
Operating through three primary divisions—Early Childhood Development, Education, and Workforce Development—PIC has built a comprehensive program lineup that addresses the needs of the region’s residents at every stage of life. From early education initiatives to adult literacy programs, PIC ensures that each program is tailored to foster success. The organization is governed by a dedicated 15-member Board of Directors and supported by over 300 committed professionals who work tirelessly to deliver on PIC’s promise of community development and quality-of-life improvement.
PIC's Early Childhood Development programs, which include administering Head Start and Early Head Start in Fayette and Beaver counties, are essential in setting a solid educational foundation for the youngest community members. These programs are widely celebrated for their comprehensive approach to early childhood education and their positive long-term impact on both children and their families.
In the Education division, PIC operates its own licensed school, the Education and Technology Institute (ETI), where a broad range of educational services are offered, including GED® testing as an official Pearson Vue testing center. PIC also provides valuable in-school, out-of-school, and after-school youth programs that encourage educational achievement and career readiness, preparing young people for success in their future careers.
The Workforce Development division is a hallmark of PIC’s service. This division offers everything from job search assistance to career counseling, job training, and placement services. The Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board has named PIC as the Title 1 provider of services for the region, highlighting its role as a leader in workforce development. PIC is also the primary provider of welfare-to-work programs and case management services, helping individuals transition from public assistance to sustainable employment.
Additionally, PIC operates the Pennsylvania CareerLink® centers in Westmoreland, Alle-Kiski, and Fayette counties, providing critical resources for job seekers. These centers offer labor market information, job listings, and skills assessments that give job seekers the guidance and support they need to navigate today’s job market.
As the premier provider of adult literacy programs in Westmoreland and Fayette counties, PIC is a lifeline for many in the region. Through its extensive programming, PIC directly impacts the local economy by improving employment rates, reducing poverty, and creating opportunities for self-sufficiency. We at the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce are proud to honor PIC as our Non-Profit of the Month for its outstanding contributions to our community. PIC’s unwavering commitment to improving lives and strengthening the regional workforce is an inspiration, and we look forward to seeing the organization continue to make a positive difference in Westmoreland and Fayette counties.
