WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

The Count Basie Center for the Arts, in collaboration with Two River Theater are proud to host a Workforce Development Program. The partnership provides economic empowerment and inclusive opportunities to bilingual speakers in Monmouth County.

The multi-factored initiative offers paid training in skills-based development, a financial literacy course, CPR certification and general job preparedness workshops. The Basie Center and Two River Theater take applications and work with other local nonprofits and schools to identify ideal candidates, many of whom may have no previous work experience. The participants are cross-trained in front-of-house responsibilities – i.e.: public-facing, customer service-based work like ushering and ticketing – between the two organizations.

Launched in 2024, the Basie Center / Two River partnership gave six area students a feel for what it takes to help guide customers through their experiences of purchasing and consuming the live theater experience. Feedback from participants showed an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes aspect of the program, as well as an appreciation for the shadowing opportunities provided by employees of both nonprofit organizations.

Sponsored by OceanFirst Bank and the Grunin Foundation.