Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) today announced that its nationally recognized welfare-to-work program, Pathways to Independence…A Training for Jobs Program has reached a 10-year milestone.

Pathways to Independence started as a pilot program in 1990 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis hotel. Since its inception, Pathways has expanded to 40 locations in the United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. More than 2,700 individuals have graduated from the Pathways program.

“We are pleased that our Pathways program has made a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals who have faced barriers to employment,” said J.W. Marriott, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer, Marriott International.

Pathways to Independence is a six-week, pre-employment, life and occupational skills training program designed to help individuals on public assistance transition to a productive career in the hospitality industry.

Administered by Marriott’s Community Employment and Training Programs Department, Pathways includes 60 hours of classroom instruction and 120 hours of occupational skills training.

During the training program, participants learn the importance of job acquisition skills, safety training, communication, personal life skills and job retention. Participants who successfully complete the program receive full-time job offers with benefits. Retention rates for Pathways graduates since the program’s inception are among the highest in the hospitality industry: 80 percent graduation rate, 90 percent retention after 90 days and over 55 percent retention after one year.

Pathways has received numerous awards and recognition, and has been used as a model by other companies to establish similar programs.

Marriott International, Inc.

Marriott International, Inc.

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 72 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012.

The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands, including Marriott Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Bulgari, EDITION, Renaissance, Gaylord Hotels, Autograph Collection, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Vacation Club, Grand Residences by Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club.

There are approximately 325,000 employees at headquarters, managed and franchised properties. Marriott is consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business operations, which it conducts based on five core values: put people first, pursue excellence, embrace change, act with integrity, and serve our world. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

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