Fostering connections between students and the broader community is the focus of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation (BVCCEF). It strengthens partnerships between the business community, local government and organizations, and students of all ages to help them develop their knowledge, career preparation, leadership skills and their potential.

Through four major program areas the BVCCEF accomplishes its mission to lead and support education that promotes workforce development and enhances quality of life in the Blackstone Valley. The School to Career programs help students explore career opportunities by tying workplace experiences to academic learning; their grants to schools support innovative programs to connect students to their community as well as preparing them for the workforce; Leadership Blackstone Valley cultivates emerging leaders; and the Blackstone Valley Teachers Academy offers the opportunity for teachers to complete their Master in Education at Worcester State College.

In 2001-02, 354 students participated in internships, 365 students participated in job shadow days with over 100 employers, and 125 area employers were involved as internship supervisors or job shadow mentors. In an area of economic transition where local school districts don’t have the financial resources to keep up with demands the BVCCEF meets the needs of the region by coordinating and facilitating school to career programs to help those most at risk of falling through the academic cracks. Won’t you help them achieve greater success? Your philanthropic support is needed.