Go to main contentsGo to main menu
Monday, September 15, 2025 at 7:43 PM

Green Door Fund launches March Matching Program to empower rural students

The Green Door Fund for Workforce Development and Education, an internal program of the Fayette Community Foundation, is committed to providing job awareness, training, and career opportunities to local students and young adults in Fayette County and the surrounding rural region. Emphasizing alternatives to traditional college education, the fund aims to support local students who represent the overlooked and underserved 38% of high school graduates in the U.S. who do not pursue college, along with the 16% who do not graduate high school. Led by an Advisory Council comprised of noted and trusted members of our community, The Green Door Fund is working towards enhancing the quality of life for all members of our rural region by helping our youth find mean ingful employment and our busi- nesses find the staff they need to operate successfully.

The Green Door Fund for Workforce Development and Education, an internal program of the Fayette Community Foundation, is committed to providing job awareness, training, and career opportunities to local students and young adults in Fayette County and the surrounding rural region. Emphasizing alternatives to traditional college education, the fund aims to support local students who represent the overlooked and underserved 38% of high school graduates in the U.S. who do not pursue college, along with the 16% who do not graduate high school. Led by an Advisory Council comprised of noted and trusted members of our community, The Green Door Fund is working towards enhancing the quality of life for all members of our rural region by helping our youth find mean ingful employment and our busi- nesses find the staff they need to operate successfully.

'In our world, green signifies growth and opportunity. The Green Door Fund is all about providing the 'green light' to indi- viduals seeking fulfilling careers without the necessity of a college degree,' says Leslie Penello, FCF Board Secretary and Chair of the Green Door Fund.

Recognizing the growing demand for skilled workers in local businesses, the Green Door Fund facilitates awareness and access to entry-level job oppor- tunities in various fields such as electricians, plumbers, mechan- ics, welders, certified nursing assistants, and commercial drivers. By bridging the gap between eager learners and employers, the fund envisions a thriving community built on the principles of inclusivity, mentorship, and skill development.

PLEASE LOG IN FOR PREMIUM CONTENT. Our website requires visitors to log in to view the best local news. Not yet a subscriber? Subscribe today!
e-Edition
Columbus Banner Press