Bluegrass Community and Technical College receives $30,000 from United Way of the Bluegrass
The gift will allow the college to develop a new program that will prepare students to work as direct support professionals.
Bluegrass Community and Technical College has received $30,000 from United Way of the Bluegrass to create a new training program that will prepare students to become direct support professionals. Direct support professionals work with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and support them through providing personal care and health care to ensure individuals are able to fully participate in their communities.
According to an article on Bluegrass Community and Technical College’s website, Dr. Greg Feeney, who serves as the college’s president and CEO, was quoted as saying, “BCTC is honored to partner with United Way of the Bluegrass in addressing such a critical workforce need in Central Kentucky. This investment allows us to expand our efforts in preparing professionals who provide vital support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together, we are strengthening both families and communities.”
The grant funding will allow for the development of a training program that gives students the specialized skills they need to work as direct support professionals. The work of a direct support professional includes providing health monitoring, personal care, and work-based learning support. In addition to the development of the new program, the partnership also includes the opportunity for students to go to United Way of the Bluegrass’ Waypoint Centers for additional training that will help them transition into the human services field.
Dr. Erin Tipton, who serves as the college’s Vice President of Advancement and Workforce Development, said, “We are deeply grateful to United Way of the Bluegrass for this award. The need for trained Direct Support Professionals is urgent, and this funding will allow us to create a pipeline of skilled workers who can provide compassionate, high-quality care. By working alongside UWBG and their Waypoint Centers, we will connect more individuals to meaningful careers while helping meet the workforce demands of this vital sector.”
For more information about Bluegrass Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.