Launch Point Community Development Center, Inc. (“Launch Point CDC”), in partnership with Dwyer Workforce Development (“DWD”), proudly celebrated the graduation of 100 newly certified nursing assistants (CNAs) at the Harris County Department of Education’s Adult Education Learning Center on November 1. This event honored the graduates’ accomplishments and highlighted the new partnership between Launch Point CDC and DWD to tackle the healthcare workforce shortage in the Houston region.
Graduates completed the six-week CNA training program, equipping them with the skills needed to provide essential, basic care to residents of long-term care facilities as well as those in other healthcare settings. The tuition-free program aims to address the state’s loss of nearly 40 percent of its CNAs over the last decade, a gap that has grown as the senior population continues to boom.
“During this time of healthcare growth, Launch Point CDC, Inc. is proud to partner with Dwyer Workforce Development to ensure success within the high demand CNA field,” said Dr. Ivory Mayhorn Jr., CEO of Launch Point CDC, Inc. “Our goal is to help make dreams come true and provide for economic prosperity.”
The demand for CNAs is high as they account for nearly 60 percent of the workforce in nursing facilities. Through their innovative partnership, Launch Point CDC and DWD are providing the tools and support needed to position students for success in their studies as well as a long-term career with significant opportunities for growth. Together, the organizations are working to expand this model to respond to the urgent need for healthcare professionals while supporting the economic development of Houston’s most vulnerable populations.
“Dwyer Workforce Development seeks to partner with changemakers throughout the country to help uplift populations, and Launch Point CDC has been transforming the Houston community for decades through its various programs and services,” said Barb Clapp, CEO of Dwyer Workforce Development. “The Houston region is a priority for DWD, we are energized by the impact we are already having through our collaboration – every day we are witnessing meaningful change as we help our Dwyer Scholars break generational cycles of poverty by preparing them for long-term, rewarding careers in healthcare.”
In addition to the program’s free training, DWD offers comprehensive, person-centered case management and a variety of wraparound services — such as housing, transportation and childcare assistance — as well as job placement support upon completion of the program. These resources help participants stay focused on their studies and thrive in their new careers.
“Empowering the next generation of healthcare heroes, partnerships like Launch Point CDC and DWD are transforming passion into skill, ensuring our CNA students are not just trained, but inspired to make a difference in every life they touch,” said Linda Fehoko, Director of Harris County Department of Education.
With over 400 individuals on the waiting list for the organizations’ CNA program, the overwhelming interest highlights a strong desire among underserved communities to advance their careers in healthcare. For more information and to apply, visit Launch Point CDC’s website. Photos from the CNA class graduation are accessible here.
###
About Dwyer Workforce Development (www.dwyerworkforcedev.org)
Dwyer Workforce Development is a unique 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to provide comprehensive support to individuals who lack opportunity and aspire to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, alleviate a severe healthcare workforce shortage, and improve the lives of seniors and the community at large. Dwyer Workforce Development provides program participants – Dwyer Scholars – Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training, job placement support in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, need-based wraparound services, and person-centered case management to foster successful outcomes. Founded by businessman, philanthropist and entrepreneur, Jack Dwyer and his family, in 2021, DWD’s unique model is redefining what it means to give back by creating career opportunities for those who lack opportunity, reducing healthcare staff shortages, and improving senior care. For more information, visit www.dwyerworkforcedev.org and follow DWD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
About Launch Point CDC, Inc. (www.thelaunchcenter.org)
Launch Point CDC, Inc. is a community development, resource, and information center since 1993. Equipping our youth, adults, people with disabilities and families with life-building training, skills, jobs, social services, career placement, and entrepreneurship. We focus on impactful economic development and revitalization for Houston’s underserved communities, energizing sustainability for struggling communities to meet the needs of the future. LPCDC will never omit any segment of the community in its endeavors. The LPCDC Career and Training center focuses on high demand and high-tech courses that will enable the youth and adults to meet the demands of the future. We provide training that leads to certifications, licenses and job placement opportunities while working nonstop with employers and business owners at every level. Case Management and work force development allow the trainees to get the additional support they require to move forward in their careers. We seek win-win strategies for all concerned.