Together with the National Retail Federation, the NRF Foundation is offering new resources for people impacted by the coronavirus, including free online skills training, a job board highlighting opportunities from increased consumer demand and additional tools for undergraduates applying for scholarships. Here’s a look at three of them:
Free skills training
Through June 12, the introductory RISE Up online course is free for anyone who wants to take it. Retail Industry Fundamentals is self-paced and takes about five hours to complete on a computer or tablet using a web browser.
Individuals who are at least 15 years old can access the online platform here.
Organizations also get free access to the introductory class, making it easy to offer the industry-backed training virtually to a group of students or clients. Registering as a partner enables organizations (such as educators, workforce centers and retailers) to enroll individuals, track progress and download reports.
Job board
While some companies have made cuts to their workforce due to closures amid the coronavirus, many retailers are ramping up hiring to meet increased consumer demand.
To support workers whose jobs have been impacted by COVID-19, NRF launched a job board “collectively representing more than a million opportunities since the crisis began.”
The job board lists opportunities across the country at grocery chains, discount and drug stores.
Tools for undergraduates
Due to campus closures amid the coronavirus, the deadline for the $25,000 NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship has been extended to May 15 and students can access new virtual tools anytime as they apply.
While the application is completed electronically, advisors at NRF University Member Schools have traditionally been an important resource to guide students through the process. As in-person help shifts online, the Foundation created a video series that includes a step-by-step application tutorial and tips for producing a personal brand video while social distancing.