The Texas Workforce Commission today announced a Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund grant of over $240,000 to Dwyer Workforce Development, a national healthcare workforce nonprofit doing extensive work in Texas, for critical workforce training in Northeast Houston.
Dwyer Workforce Development, in partnership with Launch Point CDC, will provide certified nurse assistant (CNA) training, creating new pathways to healthcare careers for local residents. The tuition-free program combines training with individualized support, including case management, assistance with transportation, housing and food, and childcare resources to help students complete training and enter the workforce.
“This Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund grant helps expand access to entry-level jobs in high-demand occupations, backed by Dwyer Workforce Development, a proven partner that has served more than 7,000 Texans across the state,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “This funding gives hardworking Texans a path to long-term careers and helps healthcare employers build the skilled workforce pipeline they need.”
Grant funds will address the pressing demand for healthcare professionals in Harris County and support training for 80 individuals who face significant barriers to employment. Participants will enter the healthcare field in positions with hospitals, long-term care facilities and other healthcare providers across Harris County.
“This grant will help Houstonians launch careers in healthcare and create brighter futures for their families,” said Barb Clapp, CEO of Dwyer Workforce Development. “We’re grateful to the Texas Workforce Commission and the state of Texas for investing in Texans and partnering with us to meet the growing need for skilled healthcare workers. Together, we’re expanding opportunity and strengthening healthcare across Texas.”
The Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund was established by the 88th Texas Legislature in 2023 and appropriated $5 million for the FY 2024-2025 biennium.
More information on this training program is available at https://dwyerworkforcedev.org/.
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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 healthcare facilities, need-based wraparound services, and person-centered case management to foster successful outcomes.
Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Jack Dwyer and his family, DWD is redefining what it means to give back—creating career pathways, strengthening the healthcare workforce, and improving patient outcomes. Under the leadership of CEO Barb Clapp, handpicked by Dwyer for her visionary leadership and commitment to equity, the organization has grown rapidly from its Baltimore, Maryland headquarters, expanding its national reach to include Maryland, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
Learn more at www.dwyerworkforcedev.org, and follow DWD on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for the latest updates.