When we first launched the Ripple Effect Fund three years ago, we knew that lasting change couldn't happen in isolation. Today, I'm excited to share how our community partnership model is creating waves of positive impact that reach far beyond our initial investment.
Last month, we celebrated the graduation of 24 students from our partnership with Metro Community College's workforce development program. What makes this achievement special isn't just the number—it's the story behind it.
When local manufacturer TechFlow Industries approached us about a skills gap in their workforce, we saw an opportunity to connect immediate community needs with long-term career pathways. Together with the college, we designed a 16-week program combining technical training with soft skills development and financial literacy education.
"I never thought I'd be making $22 an hour with full benefits," shared graduate Marcus Thompson, a father of two who was working part-time retail before joining our program. "But more than that, I finally have a career path that can support my family's future."
The beauty of this collaborative approach is how one success creates multiple ripples:
But perhaps the most powerful ripple is happening at home. Several graduates have shared how their children are now talking about college for the first time, seeing their parents as proof that education and hard work create opportunities.
This fall, we're expanding this model to healthcare with Riverside Medical Center, addressing both the nursing shortage and providing career pathways in one of our region's fastest-growing sectors. We're also launching our first community-led initiative, where neighborhood leaders identify local needs and we provide the resources and expertise to address them.
The requests for support keep growing, but so does our network of partners willing to invest in solutions. Every partnership we build multiplies our capacity to create lasting change.
Whether you're an individual donor, local business, or community organization, there are countless ways to join our mission:
Remember, every ripple starts with a single drop. Your support—no matter the size—becomes part of a much larger wave of positive change.
Ready to create ripples in your community? Apply for funding or learn about volunteer opportunities today.