When Axis Health System reached out to the La Plata Economic Development Alliance about the Opportunity NOW grant, it was to foster Healthcare Workforce Pathways. This partnership builds on the Alliance’s success with Project Rural Upskill Network.
Project RUN is a team effort, bringing together the Alliance, Fort Lewis College, and the Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative. Together, they focus on aligning workforce training with local industry needs. The Alliance has a knack for launching economic programs, especially ones that create jobs and support community growth.
Right now, one major hurdle is the lack of training resources in the area. Many people interested in health care must travel out of state for crucial certifications. Annie Lawson, a key player in this initiative, suggests building a Pearson VUE Authorized Testing Center locally. This center would make it easier for trainees to get the training they need. Initial costs range from $15,500 to $34,000.
Health care remains a growing field in La Plata County. Various sectors, from mental health to dental care, are expanding. As the local population ages, the demand for medical services will only increase. A study by the Common Sense Institute predicts that by 2050, households led by someone 65 or older will rise by 58%, reaching nearly one million.
To tackle these staffing shortages, Project RUN aims to improve recruitment and nurture local talent. The program offers several supportive services for those pursuing health care careers:
- Career exploration tools
- Job search assistance
- Information on scholarships
- Connections to local employers
- One-on-one support
Additionally, Project RUN manages the HWP Internship Fund, which helps local health care employers create paid internships. Host organizations can receive up to $3,000 per intern, which supports both the intern and the employer in building a skilled workforce.
To date, the Alliance has successfully aided 52 individuals in finding health care jobs or obtaining necessary certifications. They have funding secured through the end of this year to continue this important work.
Workforce development is crucial for the community, and initiatives like Project RUN play a significant role in meeting the area’s health care needs. For further details about this program, you can check out ProjectRunCO.work.
Sarah Tober is the executive director of the La Plata Economic Development Alliance, and her leadership in these initiatives highlights the importance of community-driven solutions in workforce development.
