Bennington, Vermont News
The Curtis Fund Supports Local Career Advancement in Bennington
Nikki Howard knew the kind of work she wanted long before she had the certification to do it. A Curtis Fund Credentials of Value Scholarship helped cover the training that moved her from LNA work into a more hands-on medical…
Key points
- The Curtis Fund provides scholarships for career-focused training in Vermont.
- Nikki Howard, a local nursing assistant, advanced her career with scholarship support.
- Investing in workforce training benefits both individuals and the community.
MONTPELIER, Vt. NewsWK — In Bennington, Vermont, local residents seeking to advance their careers are finding support through The Curtis Fund. This initiative is particularly significant for individuals like Nikki Howard, who works at the Vermont Orthopedic Clinic.
Nikki began her career as a licensed nursing assistant, where she gained insight into the medical field and watched medical assistants perform tasks she aspired to learn. While she enjoyed her job, she recognized the need for further education to obtain a medical assistant certification. However, balancing full-time work and family responsibilities made the financial burden of training daunting.
Support from The Curtis Fund
The Curtis Fund’s Credentials of Value Scholarship played a crucial role in Nikki’s journey. This scholarship provides funding for Vermont students enrolled in short-term, career-focused training programs, easing the financial strain associated with further education.
Nikki expressed relief upon learning she had been awarded the scholarship, stating it lifted a weight off her shoulders and allowed her to pursue the necessary schooling. Upon completing the program, she quickly advanced in her role, engaging in hands-on clinical work such as assisting with stitches, casting, injections, and ultrasound procedures.
Impact on the Community
Nikki’s experience highlights the importance of community support in healthcare careers. She believes that ongoing education is vital, as it opens up new opportunities for growth, including potential future training in radiology or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) skills. The scholarship not only benefits individuals but also enhances the overall quality of healthcare in the community.
As Nikki noted, “Support like this matters because it keeps people from getting stuck. It helps someone with real ambition turn that into a career.” When healthcare workers can’t afford further training, the effects ripple through the entire community, ultimately impacting patient care.
The Curtis Fund is dedicated to empowering individuals to pursue their professional goals, ensuring that local talent can thrive. For more information on supporting Vermont students like Nikki, visit The Curtis Fund donation page.
Based on reporting originally published by VTDigger. Read the original story.
