Winston Salem Times

The city of Winston-Salem has secured a $15,600 grant from Norfolk Southern Corporation aimed at boosting its workforce development programs. The funding will support the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into two key initiatives: Successful Outcomes After Release (SOAR) and Positive Path. These programs focus on career exploration and skill development.

The grant will be used to acquire VR headsets and licenses for the Transfr VR platform, which provides immersive training modules to help participants develop essential skills and meet workforce needs. The SOAR program is designed to offer job training and personal development for former offenders. Meanwhile, Positive Path targets young adults who are high school dropouts, justice-involved, children of justice-involved parents, current or former foster youth, or those from low-income households.

Norfolk Southern's contribution is part of its larger community efforts launched in 2023 under two initiatives: the Safety First Grant Program and the Thriving Communities Grant Program. These programs aim to enhance safety organizations, promote economic opportunities, vibrant community life, and ensure equal access to essential resources across Norfolk Southern’s 22-state network.