Regions Foundation Awards $150K Grant to Support STRIVE Birmingham's Workforce Development Programs
The Regions Foundation has awarded a $150,000 grant to support the educational and workforce development initiatives offered by STRIVE Birmingham. Established in 2023, STRIVE Birmingham follows a nationally acclaimed model that combines job training with wraparound services. The program uses work-simulated environments to help adult learners develop essential qualities like accountability, personal responsibility, professional ethics, etiquette, and interpersonal skills. Additionally, participants undergo occupational skills training and certification, equipping them for long-term, fulfilling careers.
"STRIVE’s innovative approach to workforce development is highly effective," remarked Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. "Their blend of mindset development and skills training provides a strong foundation for success, and their collaboration with employers ensures participants are prepared for in-demand jobs. This initiative goes beyond job training—it fosters hope and helps create a brighter future, enabling more people to thrive in our community."
The grant was presented during one of STRIVE Birmingham’s first graduation ceremonies, celebrating the achievements of adults who completed the program. Self highlighted that the positive impacts of STRIVE will benefit families for many years.
Quiwintre Frye, executive director of STRIVE Birmingham, expressed gratitude for the funding. "This support comes at a crucial time as we expand to reach more communities with limited access to opportunities," Frye said. "Many families face obstacles to financial mobility, and STRIVE is committed to breaking down those barriers and providing pathways to stable employment and careers."
Through STRIVE’s Healthcare & Office Operations program, students receive training and certifications that lead to career opportunities in Birmingham’s healthcare sector, with room for advancement. LaShundra Ravizee, a STRIVE graduate, shared her experience: "The training not only helped me become a certified administrative assistant, but it also boosted my confidence and equipped me with the skills needed to excel in a hospital setting. The supportive environment and mentorship from staff and peers played a key role in my success."
The Regions Foundation, funded primarily by Regions Bank, supports various programs that provide educational and workforce development opportunities, as well as initiatives aimed at economic and community development. Self emphasized, "STRIVE understands the current job market, and their lifetime graduate support ensures ongoing success. We are proud to contribute to their efforts and look forward to seeing more graduates succeed."
STRIVE Birmingham's next training program, focused on healthcare and office operations, begins on September 23.
Click here if you would like to know more.
"STRIVE’s innovative approach to workforce development is highly effective," remarked Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. "Their blend of mindset development and skills training provides a strong foundation for success, and their collaboration with employers ensures participants are prepared for in-demand jobs. This initiative goes beyond job training—it fosters hope and helps create a brighter future, enabling more people to thrive in our community."
The grant was presented during one of STRIVE Birmingham’s first graduation ceremonies, celebrating the achievements of adults who completed the program. Self highlighted that the positive impacts of STRIVE will benefit families for many years.
Quiwintre Frye, executive director of STRIVE Birmingham, expressed gratitude for the funding. "This support comes at a crucial time as we expand to reach more communities with limited access to opportunities," Frye said. "Many families face obstacles to financial mobility, and STRIVE is committed to breaking down those barriers and providing pathways to stable employment and careers."
Through STRIVE’s Healthcare & Office Operations program, students receive training and certifications that lead to career opportunities in Birmingham’s healthcare sector, with room for advancement. LaShundra Ravizee, a STRIVE graduate, shared her experience: "The training not only helped me become a certified administrative assistant, but it also boosted my confidence and equipped me with the skills needed to excel in a hospital setting. The supportive environment and mentorship from staff and peers played a key role in my success."
The Regions Foundation, funded primarily by Regions Bank, supports various programs that provide educational and workforce development opportunities, as well as initiatives aimed at economic and community development. Self emphasized, "STRIVE understands the current job market, and their lifetime graduate support ensures ongoing success. We are proud to contribute to their efforts and look forward to seeing more graduates succeed."
STRIVE Birmingham's next training program, focused on healthcare and office operations, begins on September 23.
Click here if you would like to know more.
Companies