According to researchers at Georgetown University, 65% of jobs in the U.S. now require at least some post-secondary education, while only about half of adults nationally (39% in St. Joseph County) have two-or-four-year degrees or other workforce training credentials. Further, it’s estimated that in the next decade about a third of the tasks performed in 60% of all occupations will change as a result of automation or AI. The old model of relying on the education gained in our youth to keep us employable for life is rapidly becoming obsolete.
It was with those realities in mind that the Drucker Institute, with local and international philanthropic grant assistance, developed the Bendable platform, and introduced it in St. Joseph County. Designed as a portal for lifelong learning, Bendable provides local residents with the access to complete high-school and post-secondary degrees, acquire valuable new industry-relevant job skills, credentials and certifications, and enhance overall well-being.
The Drucker Institute submitted a grant application for Launch 2.0, understanding that long-term success will depend upon continuing to provide the opportunity to earn industry-relevant credentials at no financial cost to users most in need, The Foundation, a previous Bendable supporter, agreed to provide the grant necessary to ensure this resource will remain free to residents of St. Joseph County.
