Vocational Solutions received several grants this year. The monies from these grants have definitely been put to good use. We are very grateful to the following foundations for these generous grants:
Community Foundation of Henderson County – Thanks to the $35,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Henderson County, Vocational Solutions was able to purchase a much-needed van and pay for other transportation expenses. This is important because community involvement is a major component our vocational and educational training. Clients need to be transported to work training sites, volunteer work, exercise programs at the YMCA, and educational field trips.
James H. Cummings Foundation – The Vocational Solutions building houses a “clean room”, which is a sterile environment in which contract work involving medical supplies can be accomplished. With the $52,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation, the process of purchasing equipment for the clean room has begun. Income from work done in the clean room will help pay for services and programs at Vocational Solutions.
Sisters of Mercy – With this $52,000 Quality Assurance/Business Development grant, Vocational Solutions was able to hire Edgar Enriquez. Edgar will working to make sure that our systems are working properly and with good quality product. When systems are functioning well, more business opportunities will become available. Readying the clean room for ISO certification, and meeting OSHA standards are some of the priorities Edgar is working on in this position.
Smoky Mountain Center – The primary goal for clients attending Vocational Solutions is to achieve employment. We recently received a $26,500 Maintenance of Effort Grant (MOE) for business development to provide working opportunities for people with disabilities.