2010 Grants

Each year the Connections Advisory Committee surveys its membership to determine the grant selection focus. For the first four years of the Fund’s grant making the focus was Youth and Education. As unusual economic factors emerged in our community, it is not surprising that the membership responded by identifying a new grant focus that coupled both Education and Economic Development as it pertains to Job Skills Training.

Grant application packets were sent to 12 organizations that could offer programs or projects that fit the grant focus. Site visits were conducted and Connections members voted on the proposals. The Grants and Advisory Committees then met and finalized the selections.

Pioneer Career and Technology Center – STNA Designation and OPAC Transcripts

The targeted audience for these two programs are as follows: Adult students presently enrolled in the Administrative/Legal/Medical Office Technology programs and financially disadvantaged students enrolled in the Nurse’s Aid Program. Grant dollars would assist in covering the costs of the test for the official Ohio Proficiency Assessment and Certification (OPAC) transcript or, for the State Tested Nurse’s Aid Designation (STNA) that allows a student entry into what may be the first step to a career in the health care field.

SCORE – SCORE Quick Start Series Workshop

SCORE is a national volunteer operation that provides free confidential counseling and educational expertise to maximize the success of existing and emerging small businesses. Grant dollars would allow the local chapter to offer a series of five workshops to up to 50 clients, which include but is not limited to, such topics as developing a business concept, marketing plan, and financial projections. The goal is to provide support for existing business and to help create new ones.

United Way of Richland County – Annual Campaign, "Race for the Goal."