January 23, 2009 – Wakefield, RI – The Education Exchange, a non-profit provider of affordable, convenient, and accessible adult education and job skills training programs throughout southern Rhode Island, has been awarded a $2,600 grant from The Champlin Foundations and a $3,500 grant from the Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island. The grants fund computer and software upgrades in support of the Education Exchange’s job readiness and computer classes at the Bradford Jonnycake Center in Westerly.
The Champlin Foundations fund programs throughout Rhode Island that have the potential to have the greatest positive impact on the broadest possible segment of the population. This grant to the Education Exchange fulfills a significant goal of the Foundations by facilitating a program that fosters positive change by directly and measurably improving the lives of Rhode Islanders.
“We provide funding to programs that demonstrate their ability to serve a real need within the community,” says Keith Lang, Executive Director of The Champlin Foundations. “Because of the Education Exchange program in Westerly,” he adds, “residents have the opportunity to acquire literacy and computer skills, and ultimately find and maintain employment in a difficult job market – they have a chance to succeed.”
The Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island, which supports programs throughout the state that serve vulnerable members of the community, also considers the potential positive impact of the programs it supports. With its grant to the Education Exchange, Episcopal Charities affirms that providing the opportunity to obtain an adequate education is an essential component of offering people hope that they can improve their lives, for themselves and their families.
“Rhode Island’s economic crisis puts vulnerable populations at significant risk,” explains Peggy Amatore, Director of Episcopal Charities, “which is why programs such as the one offered by the Education Exchange are so crucial. Providing literacy and workplace skills is often a key part of enabling people to make a positive change in their lives so they can achieve personal and professional success.”
The Education Exchange classes at the Bradford Jonnycake Center include: Adult Basic Education, GED Preparation, and Computer Basics. In addition, computers at the Jonnycake Center are available to individuals who need to conduct a job search or prepare a resume.
“We see the results of our adult education programs and we know that we are making a real and positive difference in people’s lives,” explains Peggy Benz, Executive Director of the Education Exchange, “The support of respected organizations such as The Champlin Foundations and Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island is a testament to the importance of our effort to provide students with essential skills that allow them to successfully participate in the workplace.”
In addition to the program at the Bradford Jonnycake Center, the Education Exchange also offers classes at locations throughout southern Rhode Island, including Wakefield and North Kingstown. Beyond basic literacy, ESL, and GED preparation, the Education Exchange provides computer classes, including QuickBooks and Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Professional certification courses, including those for teacher assistant or Microsoft Office Specialist, are also available. Funding for classes at the Education Exchange may be available to unemployed workers through the RI Department of Labor and Training. To learn more, call netWORKri at 1-888-616-JOBS.
About the Education Exchange
For thirty years, the Education Exchange – a non-profit adult education provider formerly known as the Washington County Adult Learning Center – has enriched the lives of southern Rhode Islanders by providing affordable, convenient, and accessible adult education and job skills training. From literacy skills and GED preparation to workforce development and computer skills, the Education Exchange provides a full range of classes that help students improve their lives and achieve professional goals. More information about the Education Exchange is available online at www.educationexchangeri.org or by calling 401-783-0293.
About The Champlin Foundations
The Champlin Foundations are comprised of three foundations, the first established in 1932 by George S. Champlin, Florence C. Hamilton and Hope C. Neaves, who also created The Second Champlin Foundation in 1947. The Third Champlin Foundation was established by George S. Champlin in 1975. The Foundations make direct grants to tax exempt organizations, mostly for capital needs, to enable the greatest positive impact on the broadest possible segment of the population. Another important goal is to provide “hands on” equipment and facilities for those being served by these tax-exempt organizations. More information about The Champlin Foundations is available online at http://foundationcenter.org/grantmaker/champlin/index.html or by calling 401-736-0370.
About the Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island
In acknowledgement of the Gospel Imperative to feed, clothe, heal, and visit, the Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island assists ministries of the Diocese and charities of the wider Rhode Island community by providing funds that help bring hope, comfort, and healing to Rhode Islanders in need. Since its founding in 1952, Episcopal Charities has been committed to helping change the lives of Rhode Islanders who are in crisis and need. In 2008, the fund distributed social service grants to 105 agencies and programs throughout Rhode Island. For more information about the Episcopal Charities Fund of Rhode Island, visit www.episcopalri.org or call 401-274-4500 ext 234.
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For more information, please contact the Education Exchange at 401-783-0293 or online at www.educationexchangeri.org.
