Greater Grant County Awarded $325,000 Cape II Career Exploration Grant
| Press Release | |
| Contact: Kylie Jackson, President/CEO Email: Kylie@GoGreaterGrant.org |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 10/22/2024 |
Greater Grant County Awarded $325,000 CAPE II Career Exploration Grant
GRANT COUNTY — Greater Grant County has been awarded a $325,000 CAPE II Career Exploration Grant from the Community Foundation of Grant County and Indiana Wesleyan University. The grant, distributed over five years at $65,000 annually, aims to bridge the gap between local education and career readiness by funding a newly established Director of Workforce Development position.
The CAPE II Career Exploration Grant aligns with Greater Grant County’s mission to be a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders, and a champion for a stronger community. The new position will focus on fostering meaningful connections between local schools and employers, facilitating internship opportunities, and guiding students toward successful career pathways.
“This grant will make a significant impact in helping us address a critical need in our community,” said Kylie Jackson, President/CEO of Greater Grant County. “By investing in the future workforce, we are creating stronger connections between education and career opportunities, ultimately driving economic growth in Grant County.”
Dawn Brown, President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Grant County, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This is a momentous step for our community. I truly believe we will look back at this as a pivotal moment in Grant County’s history. Congratulations to Greater Grant County for their leadership, and a huge thank you to the CAPE Committee for making this remarkable decision possible!”
The Director of Workforce Development will collaborate closely with the Grant County Talent Coalition, a partnership of local businesses, schools, and community leaders. This coalition will work together to create sustainable, work-based learning experiences that benefit both students and local employers.
“This program will support our schools in providing valuable career exploration and work-based learning experiences while giving businesses the opportunity to build a pipeline of future employees,” added Jackson. “It’s truly a win-win for everyone involved.”
Dr. Levi Huffman, Associate Dean of Life Calling & Career at Indiana Wesleyan University and Chair of the CAPE Committee, also praised the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to support this initiative. This partnership will allow students in Grant County to flourish as they explore meaningful career opportunities. We look forward to working closely with the Greater Grant County team to make a lasting impact.”
CAPE Grant Goals
The CAPE II Career Exploration Grant will focus on several key objectives:
- Assist students in exploring career options through education programs and resources
- Facilitate internships and job-shadowing opportunities
- Improve students' readiness for post-secondary education and employment
- Establish strong partnerships between schools and local businesses to create career pathways
- Provide ongoing career education resources and support to students
By aligning education with workforce needs, this initiative will ensure that Grant County students are better prepared for the future. Success will be measured through several metrics, including the number of students participating in work-based learning experiences, employment rates after graduation, and increased average household income in the community.
Looking Ahead
Greater Grant County will begin the search for the Director of Workforce Development immediately, with plans to have the position filled within three months. The first year will involve building partnerships with local schools and businesses and refining a system that will be scalable in future years.
The Community Foundation of Grant County and Indiana Wesleyan University are proud to partner with Greater Grant County on this initiative, investing in the region's future workforce and contributing to the economic vitality of the community.
For those interested in learning more about the position or applying, contact Kylie Jackson at Kylie@GoGreaterGrant.org.
About Greater Grant County:
Greater Grant County is dedicated to fostering business growth, connecting community leaders, and championing initiatives that strengthen the local economy and community. Through collaboration with local employers, educators, and service providers, the organization is committed to building a brighter future for Grant County residents.
About Indiana Wesleyan University:
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a private, Christian, comprehensive university located in Marion, Indiana. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual development, IWU offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a variety of fields including business, education, healthcare, and the arts. As one of the largest private universities in the Midwest, IWU serves more than 13,000 students on campus, online, and at regional centers across Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. IWU’s mission is to prepare students to become world changers by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and character needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. The university is deeply rooted in Christian values, with a commitment to service, leadership, and academic integrity.
About the Community Foundation of Grant County:
The Community Foundation of Grant County, Indiana Inc., is committed to empowering local philanthropy and supporting nonprofits in their missions to improve lives in Grant County. Since 1984, the Foundation has been a steward of charitable resources, connecting donors with causes that matter and fostering long-term community impact.
