We are responding to the over one million Ohioans struggling on inadequate incomes by developing initiatives that are breaking down the individual, institutional, and policy barriers standing in the way of college access for all.
While many adults enroll in community colleges intent on earning credential to improve their lifestyles, many do not succeed in graduating. By convening thought leaders and identifying best practices, in addition to advocating for change, KnowledgeWorks Foundation supports the policies and state recommendations that promote access to postsecondary education and training for all Ohioans, enabling them to better support themselves and their families.
The Ohio Bridges to Opportunity Initiative helps adults who earn low wages gain the skills needed to earn a living wage in today's service-sector economy. A partnership between KnowledgeWorks Foundation and the Ford Foundation, Ohio Bridges to Opportunity Initiative strengthens state policy and practice to help employers, community colleges, and adult career centers better serve the educational needs of adults who earn low wages.
Career Pathways seeks to connect adult educational programs with employer needs, including on-the-job training, and support services that enable non-traditional students to combine school and work. The goal is to provide adult students with the opportunity to advance to better jobs while improving Ohio's economic base.
