The New Castle Career Center (NCCC) is honored to be selected for Henry County REMC’s participation in the CoBank Sharing Success matching grant program. The grant program will provide $10,000 to support the Career Center’s career and technical education programs.
The Henry County REMC Board of Directors voted to match a $5,000 contribution to NCCC, doubling the impact through CoBank’s Sharing Success initiative. It serves as a strong affirmation of the Career Center’s mission to eliminate barriers, develop skills, and prepare students for in-demand careers in Henry County.
Why the New Castle Career Center Was Chosen
According to Andrea Melton, Manager of Member Engagement & Communications at Henry County REMC, the Board appreciates how NCCC supports students while directly addressing workforce needs.
“The Henry County REMC Board of Directors was especially impressed by how the New Castle Career Center removes financial barriers for students while preparing them for real, in-demand careers,” Melton shared. “Their programs provide hands-on, practical training in fields that directly support our local workforce needs.”
The Board believes that investing in students who gain industry-ready skills will make a meaningful and lasting impact on the community. Henry County REMC CEO, Melissa True, echoed this sentiment, stating:
“On behalf of our Board of Directors, we’re proud to support an organization that is helping students build confidence, develop skills, and step directly into the workforce. The Career Center is doing incredible work, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to the future of Henry County.”
The Community Impact Through Sharing Success
The CoBank Sharing Success program helps cooperatives like Henry County REMC multiply the impact of every dollar they invest locally. By matching REMC’s donation dollar-for-dollar, the program allows for greater investment in organizations that strengthen communities.
“CoBank’s Sharing Success program allows our cooperative to double the impact of every dollar we invest locally,” Melton explained. “This partnership enables us to make a greater difference than we could alone while staying true to our mission of community service.”
That mission naturally aligns with education and workforce development. As a cooperative, Henry County REMC follows seven core principles that guide all its actions, including Concern for Community and Education, Training, and Information. Supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE) directly reflects these principles.
Removing Barriers, Opening Doors
For students at the New Castle Career Center, the impact of this grant is immediate and visible. According to Mackenzie Jackson, Director of the New Castle Career Center, the funds help students who cannot afford the equipment, uniforms, tools, and kits required for the programs they choose. Without these funds, financial barriers could prevent students from accessing certain career programs. For example, students need funding for critical items like Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for welding or professional starter kits for cosmetology to start their careers.
“These items are essential for their daily participation and future employment,” Jackson said. “Because students keep them, they are fully prepared to enter the job market immediately upon graduation.” She adds, “Additionally, the funds are allocated to subsidize experiential learning opportunities, including industry field trips and career-focused student activities.”
Before completing their programs, students gain practical experience in three key settings:
Classroom Labs
Skills Simulation
Skilled Work-Based Learning (WBL) at local businesses
This hands-on approach bridges the gap between education and employment.
A Partnership That Extends Beyond a Grant
The relationship between Henry County REMC and the New Castle Career Center goes beyond just financial support. REMC also offers internship programs and job shadowing experiences, and provides access to its Community Room for special events, helping connect students with other community partners.
“We feel extremely fortunate to have the continued support of REMC,” Jackson shared. “Our partnership is a model of community collaboration, operating on multiple levels to benefit our students.”
Melton added that REMC’s broader investment in youth includes programs like Summer Cooperative Camp, Camp Kilowatt, the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., and other educational and leadership opportunities designed to inspire the next generation. “Together, these efforts reflect our cooperative commitment to education, training, and concern for community while helping prepare students for future careers right here in our community,” stated Melton.
The New Castle Career Center sincerely thanks Henry County REMC, its Board of Directors, and CoBank for supporting students and investing in their futures.