This week, the Microsoft Unlimited Potential-Community Technology Skills program will award a software grant worth $1,655,792 to Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin. The program is a part of a global effort that promotes workforce development and IT skills training programs in underserved communities.

At Goodwill this technology grant will provide training, adult basic education services and help individuals find employment through four efforts including its Workforce Connection Centers.

"We are grateful for this very generous gift. Our partnership with Microsoft creates social and economic opportunities that will change peoples' lives and transform our communities," said John L. Miller, president and CEO, Goodwill.

This is the second Microsoft grant Goodwill has received. In 2005, Microsoft awarded Goodwill a $1.1 million software grant that was used to prepare over 300 individuals enrolled in vocational training programs for competitive jobs in the community.

Since the Community Technology Skills Program began in 2003, Microsoft has provided more than $315 million in cash and software grants to more than 1,000 community partners.