Grant Success Story | William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades

William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades: Investing in the Workforce of Tomorrow

The William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades was created in 2020 with one mission: to empower students pursuing careers in the trades, applied technology, apprenticeships, and nursing. By providing grants to programs that prepare individuals for hands-on, high-demand careers, this fund is ensuring that skilled professionals have the support and resources they need to succeed in Venango County.

Since its inception, the fund has awarded over $110,000 through 16 grants, directly benefiting 12 individual grantees and funding career-focused programs that make a lasting impact.

One such program is the Keystone Community Education Council’s Welding Technology Certificate Program, a hands-on training course that prepares students for high-demand careers in welding while earning college credit. Offered in partnership with the Community College of Allegheny County, this 18-credit program is held at the Venango Technology Center, giving students access to industry-standard equipment and professional instruction. The grant helped cover facility and equipment costs, ensuring students could gain real-world experience without financial barriers standing in the way.

“The welding program has shaped me into the person I am today. It taught me about the career I want to pursue along with many life skills.”
Seth, 2025 Welding Technology Certificate Program Graduate

“The hours of practice I gained allowed me to acquire the skills necessary for welding qualifications.”
Peyton, 2025 Welding Technology Certificate Program Graduate

For students like Max, this program wasn’t just about learning a trade—it was about preparing for life:

“It taught me how to show up on time and how to be professional. Benefiting my future in every way, I couldn’t be in a better place at a better time.”

How You Can Help

The William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades is dedicated to creating opportunities for future tradespeople and skilled workers, but it relies on the generosity of donors to continue its impact.

💡 Donate Today: Contributions can be made online or by mailing a check.
📩 Contact BBCF: For more information, call (814) 677-8687.

Together, we can ensure that students in Venango County have access to career-focused education that leads to lifelong success.

Join Us September 27, 2025 for The Golden Gala!

 

Celebrate 50 Years with Us! Join Bridge Builders at The Golden Gala on September 27, 2025