In the heart of Selma, a powerful partnership is reshaping the future of Dallas County. The Black Belt Workforce Initiative (BBWI) and Career Health Services Academy (CHSA) have joined forces to tackle two of the region’s most pressing challenges: unemployment and the critical shortage of healthcare professionals.
A Mission for Mobility
Launched in 2019, the Black Belt Workforce Initiative was created through a collaboration between the Dallas County System of Services, Central Alabamaworks!, and Alabama Department of Workforce. Its goal is simple yet profound: to provide residents with the work readiness skills and job placement support needed to succeed in high-demand fields.
By partnering with Career Health Services Academy, the initiative is now opening doors to the fast-growing healthcare sector. CHSA’s mission—”Building A Better World One Student At A Time”—perfectly aligns with BBWI’s vision of sustainable economic growth for the Black Belt.
Training at the Arsenal Place
The partnership’s impact is most visible at The Arsenal Place in Selma, where Career Health Services Academy is currently hosting a hybrid Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class. This intensive program offers more than just a certificate; it provides a comprehensive career launchpad that typically includes:
- Skill-Based Training: Hands-on instruction by qualified Registered Nurses.
- All-Inclusive Support: Programs often cover essentials like uniforms, supplies, background checks, and exam fees.
- Employment Connection: CHSA emphasizes an “employment motivated” approach, ensuring students are prepared to move directly from the classroom to the workforce.
Why This Matters
For Selma and Dallas County residents, this partnership removes the traditional barriers to education. By bringing high-quality medical training directly into the community, it allows educational opportunities that help bridge the gap for those who might otherwise be left behind by the “benefits cliff” or a lack of local resources.
This isn’t just about filling a class; it’s about filling a void. That is exactly what Mr. Benjamin Rich, Director of Workforce Development for BBWI and Mr. Ronnie Caver, Case Manager, are doing. They have worked hard over the past few months collaborating with Career Health Services Academy to bring this amazing vision for the Black Belt region to life. We look forward to a successful, continuous partnership with the Black Belt Workforce Initiative.
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