EMBASSY THEATER AND BLUE JACKET COLLABORATE TO CREATE NEW CLEANING SERVICES PROGRAM
Fort Wayne
September 5, 2017
The Embassy Theatre announced today a new partnership with Blue Jacket. The Embassy Theatre partnership is the first designed to provide both training and jobs, creating two full-time and at least 12 transitional 60-day jobs with permanent job placement in the community upon completion.
“Blue Jacket’s mission and commitment to the community aligns perfectly with the Embassy’s service philosophy,” said Kelly Updike, executive director, Embassy Theatre. “Blue Jacket has an excellent reputation for its workforce re-entry programs.”
Tony Hudson, executive director of Blue Jacket, said the new role at the Embassy Theatre marks the non-profit organization’s first partnership with an arts organization. Blue Jacket’s transitional employment impacts 115 clients per year in partnership with 30 local companies, operating as a staffing firm. In March, the Fort Wayne-based non-profit assumed responsibility for the cleaning services at the Embassy Theatre, including facility set-up for the theater’s ballroom and other event rental facilities. Blue Jacket Staffing also prepares the theater’s lobby and front-of-house for all concerts and performances.
The Embassy is interested in expanding beyond job training, according to Updike. “As our partnership develops, Blue Jacket’s team will experience the performing arts as theater-goers, including exclusive seating options. The first opportunity is in October for the classically-trained duo Black Violin,” she said.
“The Embassy’s vision to provide the indelible and historic asset of the theater as a place to employ people wanting to prove their worth is a testament to the Embassy’s leadership,” said Hudson. “The collaboration with Blue Jacket to provide janitorial and event support services will pay off, not only in a great service but enhancing people’s dignity and family supports.”