Meaningful work and community involvement are two fundamental principles that drive our work at York Solutions. We are committed to creating professional opportunities for people from many different backgrounds, and we believe that our communities are stronger and more successful when everyone has the chance to reach their true potential.
We are thrilled to announce that Richard Walker, York Solutions’ CEO, recently joined the board of directors of an organization that shares these values – Genesys Works Twin Cities. A national non-profit with locations from California to Virginia, Genesys Works provides skills training, paid work experiences, mentorships, and college and career coaching to high school students in underserved communities. Genesys Works’ vision is for all young people to finish high school equipped with everything they need for career success and a lifetime of economic self-sufficiency.
When one of York Solutions’ clients introduced us to Genesys Works, the non-profit’s mission immediately resonated with our team. Walker wanted to get involved with the organization, not only because it aligns with York’s core values, but also because it connected with him on a very personal level. Walker grew up in a small town in Northern England, where he had limited economic and career options.
“My dad worked in the same factory for 47 years,” he said. “Given our limited resources, I wasn’t supposed to go to college. But I got an opportunity that changed my entire perspective. I want to make a difference in these kids’ lives, and help them in the same way that people helped me.”
When Walker left home at the age of 16, he trained as a bricklayer, then joined a program that helped him come to the United States – a move that altered the course of his life.
“As the CEO of York Solutions, I feel that we have a civil and moral duty to do more,” said Walker. “Our mission is to positively impact every single person that crosses our path.”
York Solutions is supporting Genesys Works in several other important ways. Walker is teaching one of six modules in their Think IT Link to Leadership Development Program, an invite-only training program that helps IT professionals transition into leadership roles by helping to develop their soft skills. Net proceeds from Link to Leadership are donated to Genesys Works-Twin Cities.
York Solutions is also presenting the 5th Annual Think IT Charity Golf Invitational on June 25, 2018 at the Minneapolis Golf Club. Funds raised also go to Genesys Works-Twin Cities; in 2017, the event raised over $82,000, in total, York Solutions has raised over $255,000 for Genesys Works-Twin Cities.
“It puts a big smile on my face that I’ve been at York for 20 years, and what people remember about me is the work I’ve done in the community,” said Walker.
Find out more about how York is breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in our community.