Charleston Reporter

The Lowcountry Careers Collaborative in Healthcare has made significant progress as it moves into phase three to implement the Good Jobs Challenge grant awarded by the Economic Development Agency (EDA).

"We are thrilled with the progress of the Lowcountry Careers Collaborative in Healthcare. This achievement represents a pivotal step forward in our mission to increase access to quality employment opportunities within our community and promote economic mobility," said Celeste Granger, Senior Vice President of Programs and Initiatives for the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce. "We are extremely grateful for the dedication of our partners and are eager to make a meaningful impact in the lives of underserved Tri-County residents."

Launched in 2023 by the Charleston Chamber Foundation in partnership with Roper St. Francis Healthcare and Educate, Empower, and Elevate Foundation (E3), the Collaborative aims to prepare workers in the Tri-County for high-quality career pathways in healthcare.

Recruitment efforts are now underway for training programs targeting roles for patient care technicians, certified medical assistants, certified nursing assistants, and phlebotomists. Participants will receive comprehensive case management and access to support services to foster their success.

The Charleston Chamber Foundation, with partners like GOODSTOCK Consulting as the project manager, has laid the foundation of the program since the grant was awarded. Key accomplishments include:

As the Collaborative moves into the next phase of work, key progress and priorities include:

The Charleston Chamber Foundation acknowledges the leadership and support provided by Roper St. Francis and E3 in the initial phases of the project. By engaging healthcare partners and employers, gathering input from regional nonprofits and social service providers, and convening an equity council to guide project initiatives, both organizations played a pivotal role in establishing a sustainable local workforce effort rooted in collective impact.

For more information about the Lowcountry Careers Collaborative in Healthcare, contact info@lowcountryareers.org.