Partnerships extend SWBOCES’ reach to adult learners

Programs across Westchester make an impact in several communities

The Center for Adult & Community Services is extending its reach to adult learners across Westchester by leveraging relationships with a growing number of partners to transform students’ lives.

“We rely on and deeply appreciate the partnerships we’ve built throughout the county,” said Tracy Racicot, director of the center. “Our programs have long made an important impact for our students. However, the ability to push into a business and provide expert employee training or to be the training provider for grant programs and local nonprofits raises our capacity to new levels.” 

Betsy Evans, Coordinator of Adult & Continuing Education added that by bringing expertise and training to where the need is greatest, SWBOCES is able to break down barriers to the workplace. 

SWBOCES is a training provider for the Westchester County Association’s Healthcare Talent Pipeline Program (HTPP), which has helped more than 100 students overcome barriers to employment through education and training. The program also serves employers and industries facing talent shortages. 

As a result of the program, student Michelle Colman was offered a job at Montefiore Hospital after her temporary position ended. She said she has been able to pay down her debt and raise her credit score, giving her newfound financial stability.

“I’m so happy to kickstart my career at Montefiore. I completed my one-year anniversary (in January),” Ms. Colman said. “Thank you to SWBOCES for giving me a second chance in my education.”

Meanwhile, at Youth Shelter Program of Westchester in Mount Vernon, SWBOCES provides community-based training, initiating an on-site program last fall called Culinary Fundamentals and Food Safety.

Jordan Cormier, Director of Programming, said the collaboration was vital in advancing their mission to empower justice-impacted youth with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build successful futures. The hands-on training and certification gives participants valuable skills that open doors to opportunities in food service, Ms. Cormier added. 

“More importantly, this training fostered a sense of discipline, creativity, and self-sufficiency which are essential qualities for personal and professional growth,” she said. “We are grateful to SWBOCES for their dedication to equipping our youth with practical, career-focused education that enhances their potential and strengthens their pathway to success.”

In another example, at Marshall Oil in Pound Ridge, an SWBOCES instructor provided on-site training to 15 employees to improve their skills in  refrigeration and air conditioning.

And at Neighbors Link in Mount Kisco, SWBOCES provides onsite training to clients, allowing the agency to offer Introductory Construction Trades Training, teaching immigrant workers foundational skills, knowledge and safety awareness. 

Kelly Martinez, Program and Advocacy Manager, said Neighbors Link is honored to partner with SWBOCES.

“This collaborative effort enhances job prospects, confidence and access to specialized training,” Ms. Martinez said. “It also drives economic mobility and career advancement, which is part of our vision and mission at Neighbors Link.”