CPBN Uses Innovative System to Seek Out Partners and Funding for a Veterans Vocational Training Initiative
December 11, 2012
Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network (CPBN) is in the midst of developing a state-of-the-art Learning Lab to provide education and training necessary for workforce and post-secondary success among learners of all ages, including special support for returning Veterans. The Learning Lab is expected to break ground this month. In order to complete such a unique endeavor, CPBN utilizes the full support of its Board of Trustees and staff working closely on the project to develop meaningful partnerships and explore funding sources. Their innovative systematic approach has proved successful as 13 foundations and state agencies have committed themselves to the project. To date, CPBN has received $500,000 from the State of Connecticut, and $716,000 from both foundation and corporate support, with others pending. You can access the full list of funding sources, here.
As one of the largest and most powerful classrooms in Connecticut, offering high-quality programs to thousands for nearly 50 years, CPBN felt it was only natural to expand its efforts to assist a wider range of individuals across the region. Leveraging this success, CPBN is developing a pilot program specifically designed to provide workforce training to returning veterans who face one of the highest unemployment rates in the state. President & CEO Jerry Franklin states, “ Although many veterans face unprecedented challenges as they reintegrate back into civilian life, CPBN is committed to making a difference by providing training, certifications and employment placement opportunities.” The pilot, expected to launch in January 2013, will provide education and training workshops as a pathway to receive certifications in digital media (web and graphics design and film editing). The training will provide real-world job experience and job placement assistance, enabling the participants to succeed in their careers. The different trainings will be provided in a variety of formats to accommodate all types of learners. These will include workshops in specific media arts disciplines, dual-coordinated trainings, simulations with professionals in the field, and courses consisting of a blend of in-person and digital learning components.
To make this vision a reality, CPBN grantwriters and staff close to the project have been identifying potential funders, drafting proposals and building partnerships on a community level. To give this initiative even more attention, CPBN has been tapping into the expertise and recognition of their Board of Trustees to develop well-thought-out discussion papers and coordinate in-person meetings to discuss this important project. Board member Paul Bucha, CEO of Terra Mark III LLC, who is also a Veteran, Medal of Honor recipient and former Foreign Policy Advisor to the 2008 Obama Presidential Campaign, helped to organize meetings with a number of federal agencies, including the Department of Labor and Veteran’s Affairs, to introduce the project. Another Board member, Chris Campbell, President & CEO of Palace Digital Production Center, understood the need of training Veterans to work in the field and was able to develop a discussion paper, which those close to the project can use to make the case with funders and potential partners. While it continues to be an uphill climb, all the hard work is starting to pay off.
The process of building partnerships and securing funding has required a great deal of time, dedication and coordination. For other stations looking to begin a similar endeavor, Donna Sodipo, Director of Education Services at CPBN, recommends “finding a champion in the community who can dedicate time to your project.” In the case of CPBN, their well-connected board members helped push the project along by coordinating high-level meetings and keeping the project on track. Donna emphasizes the importance of having someone outside of the day-to-day project planning process involved, to keep a focus on the long-term objectives. The assistance and dedication of so many key individuals devoted to the project made the dream of a Learning Lab and the Veteran’s Training Initiative a reality.
Learn more about the Veterans Training Initiative (article contributors: Christina Craig, Intern; Donna Sodipo, Education Services; and Carol Sisco, Human Resources & Corporate Communications, CPBN).
Links to Funding Sources for Learning Labs:
Grants for Learning Labs for Libraries and Museums (Institute for Museum and Library Services and the MacArthur Foundation)
- Learn more about this program through our April 2012 Grant Center Webinar.
