The Rio-South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation has awarded $2.4 million to eight non-profit South Texas educational and workforce development organizations. The 501(c)3 nonprofit focuses on postsecondary education and workforce development to help residents attain vocational trade certifications and/or degrees for in-demand professions, thus improving the region’s economic conditions and quality of life.
Receiving funding are South Texas College, Laredo College, Workforce Solutions, TAMIU, TSTC Harlingen, Texas A&M University Higher Education Center McAllen, UTRGV and Valley Grande Institute.
Awards funding will cover expenses and programs such as training programs, equipment, internships, offering certifications and credentials necessary for beginning employment, and scholarships. The grants cover employment growth segments such as healthcare, engineering, math, education, nursing, business, health science and construction science.
“As our region continues to grow, there is more demand than ever for skilled workers. We are gratified that RSTEF can address this need in our community,” said Adam Gonzalez, CEO of RSTEF. “We work alongside so many worthwhile organizations by providing necessary funding to help increase job opportunities and quality of life for our residents. It is our hope and expectation that these funds will make a real difference in the prosperity of our residents.”
RSTEF has awarded just over $7.5 million in grants over the past five years with an impact of $15 million as all grants are matched dollar per dollar by the award recipient.
RSTEF serves a seven-county region comprised of Willacy, Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Zapata, Jim Hogg and Webb counties. The nonprofit organization provides financial support to other 501(c)3 nonprofits whose programs increase skilled employment and educational obtainment for area residents.
“The more prepared our region is for the inevitable current and future growth, the more abundant opportunities will be for present and future generations,” said Gonzalez. “And having a more skilled workforce aids in attracting industries in the first place. It’s a win-win.”
RSTEF’s grants funding cycle begins on July 1 and closes on Aug. 31 annually. To request more information about RSTEF and its funding support, contact info@riosouthtexasecdf.org, visit RSTEF’s website or follow on Facebook.