Private donation boosts program for foster care students

The Prioritizing Academics and Career Training program (PACT) at Midlands Technical College (MTC) has just received a $30,000 grant. The funds come from The Nord Family Foundation.

The PACT program helps youth transition from high school and foster care to college and independent life as an adult student. Funding makes it possible for MTC to provide each PACT student with a personal support coach to guide them toward academic and career goals, in addition to stipends and emergency funds. PACT funding also supports community outreach to expand a network of social service and state agencies.

“This generous gift from the Nord Family Foundation makes education opportunities available to young people who might otherwise not envision themselves completing an associate’s degree or earning certification in a career training program,” said Nancy McKinney, CEO of the Midlands Technical College Foundation. “We are grateful for the Nord Family Foundation’s partnership with the Midlands Technical College Foundation to transform lives and build our community.”

Since its launch in January, 17 students were partnered with a PACT coach and two have already completed Continuing Education certificate programs. Additional funding for the Prioritizing Academics and Career Training program has come from the International Paper Foundation, the Lipscomb Family Foundation and the Google Impact Challenge.

According to research, young adults transitioning from foster care often lack critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as a strong support system. Each of those problems can lead to questionable decisions, so the PACT network was formed to teach young people how to succeed in the job market, earn living wages, and strengthen our community.