Great Jobs KC has received a grant from the Patterson Family Foundation to expand its tuition-free job training and support model into six rural NW MO counties, including Nodaway and Andrew, to help residents secure high-demand technical careers.
KANSAS CITY, MO — Great Jobs KC is proud to announce a transformative three-year, $3,845,500 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. This generous investment will allow Great Jobs KC to expand its proven tuition-free skills training and support model beyond the
Kansas City metropolitan area and into Northwest Missouri, to include the counties of Andrew, Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth as Great Jobs.
The expansion marks a major milestone in Great Jobs KC’s mission to help 50,000 residents secure family-sustaining careers by 2032. By moving into these rural regions, the organization will provide adults with access to high-demand technical training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and CDL; industries that are vital to the economic health of rural communities.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Patterson Family Foundation for their belief in our mission and their commitment to rural prosperity," said Earl Martin Phalen, CEO of Great Jobs KC. "A great job shouldn't depend on your zip code. This funding allows us to bring life-changing training and
wraparound support services to hardworking individuals in Northwest Missouri counties, helping them build better futures for their families and their local economies."
The Patterson Family Foundation is dedicated to helping rural communities thrive by supporting education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. This partnership leverages Great Jobs KC’s expertise in removing barriers to employment such as tuition costs, transportation, and childcare
to meet the specific labor needs of Northwest Missouri.
The Great Jobs expansion program will provide:
- Tuition-Free Certification: Rapid training programs in high-growth industries.
- Dedicated Scholar Advocates: Personalized coaching to help participants navigate training and the job search process.
- Supportive Services: Access to assistance for "barrier-removal" needs like tools, uniforms, and transportation.
- Employer Connections: Direct pipelines to local businesses in Northwest Missouri
Maria Flynn, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Patterson Family Foundation, shared her thoughts on the Foundation's support for this expanded workforce program. "The Patterson Family Foundation is excited to fund Great Jobs KC as part of their work in bringing new workforce solutions to rural communities. We know that thriving rural communities are composed of diverse industries and employment opportunities, and the work that Great Jobs is doing will bring new workforce skills to residents in rural Missouri. The Foundation looks forward to seeing the impact of Great Jobs’ work in rural communities as we work together to help rural communities thrive."
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