Forward Sumner Announces Drop-In Childcare Grant
Forward Sumner awarded grant that will provide drop-in childcare services on an immediate basis for economically challenged populations who are seeking employment or advanced skills training and will serve current or incoming Volunteer State Community College students.
For Immediate Release
Forward Sumner Economic Partnership Receives
TVA Workforce Invest Grant to
Increase Local Training & Education Efforts
September 13, 2024
Sumner County, TN – Today, Forward Sumner Economic Partnership (FSEP) announced that it was awarded a Workforce Invest Grant by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to support collaborative efforts in training and education.
Chris Taylor, FSEP President & CEO said “Forward Sumner is proud to partner with TVA. Workforce development can create generational change by freeing families of economic restraints that limit them. We look forward to continuing the facilitation of these opportunities.”
In response to the increasing demand for a trained workforce by business and industry, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), along with third-party consultant VisionFirst Advisors, developed an innovative initiative, known as Workforce Invest, in 2022. The goal of the program is to address critical workforce development needs.
This grant will provide drop-in childcare services on an immediate basis for economically challenged populations who are seeking employment or advanced skills training and will serve current or incoming Volunteer State Community College students.
The project is a partnership among a host of local community leaders including FSEP and its Workforce Cabinet, Volunteer State Community College, and Music City Kids.
Dr. Wendi Tostenson at Volunteer State Community College said “we are incredibly grateful for the partnership with Forward Sumner and the drop-in childcare grant, which directly addresses a significant barrier many of our students’ face. The drop-in childcare assistance program will provide immediate, flexible support, enabling our students to pursue education and workforce opportunities without the stress of arranging last-minute childcare. By removing this hurdle, we are empowering economically challenged students to stay on track with their goals and seize new opportunities that come their way.”
“Music City Kids Club is excited to be a part of bridging the childcare gap for parents who are seeking to advance their job opportunities. There is a huge need for flexible childcare in our community and this grant will extend childcare options to those who might be at a loss for resources. We look forward to serving these families.” said Allison Lanquist, Owner of Music City Kids Club.
The Tennessee Valley is a region abounding in geographic and economic opportunity. Workforce Invest, a first-of-its-kind program, leverages funds to develop a highly trained and qualified workforce to meet current and future market demands.
“TVA Economic Development is committed to our communities. Workforce Invest allows us to invest in programs that address the specific workforce and education needs at a local level. Each project funded provides needed training to residents while also filling the needs of industry. We are proud to support our local economic development partners,” said John Bradley, Senior Vice President of Economic Development for TVA.
“Providing meaningful workforce training is a cornerstone issue of our national economy. TVA’s insight to develop the program will provide a multitude of opportunities not just for the participants but for entire communities. VisionFirst is thrilled to serve as the programmatic coordinator for Workforce Invest,” said Gray Swoope, President & CEO of VisionFirst Advisors.
Over the last three years, TVA has awarded Workforce Invest grants to more than 40 communities totaling more than $3 million.
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About TVA
The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA was established 90 years ago to serve this region and the nation by developing innovative solutions to solve complex challenges. TVA’s unique mission focuses on energy, environmental stewardship and economic development. With one of the largest, most diverse and cleanest energy systems – which includes nuclear, hydro, solar, gas and advanced technologies – TVA is a leader in our nation’s drive toward a clean energy future.
About VisionFirst Advisors
VisionFirst Advisors has established itself as a go-to firm in the economic development consulting field with a variety of clients from 40+ states and six Fortune 500 companies. With a customer-driven approach, our team acts seamlessly as an extension of our client’s team to develop strategy, solve problems and deliver results while mitigating risks and barriers. We know that no two projects are the same and our approach is tailored to each of our clients. Learn more at visionfirstadvisors.com.