In September of 2022, East River forged a partnership with Center of Urban Transformation (CUT) to lead initiatives that help connect residents in the Fifth Ward to potential job opportunities at East River and abroad.

This partnership is designed to build community capacity through employment and skill development by identifying local employment needs of residents and connecting those who are interested to local training and supportive resources with the potential of placing residents in the best position possible for future employment.

The partnership has also designed a Preferred Sub-Contractor Program for current construction contractors, with the goal of opening more job opportunities for community members seeking employment.