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College Receives Two Community Initiative Grants From The Community Foundation For The Alleghenies

The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies has awarded Pennsylvania Highlands Community College two Community Initiative Grants, helping fund projects that spur community and economic development in the Greater Johnstown region.

The College’s Cambria County Smart Start Promise Program was given a $100,000 grant, while its Nonprofit Partnership Training and Initiatives Project has been allocated a $10,000 grant.

“The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies understands that workforce development begins with educational opportunity,” stated Dr. Steve Nunez, President of Pennsylvania Highlands. “By investing in Smart Start, CFA is helping local students earn workforce-aligned credentials, reducing barriers to college participation, and strengthening the talent pipeline that is essential to Cambria County’s long-term economic success. We are grateful for their partnership and commitment to our region’s future.

Launched in April, the Cambria County Smart Start Promise Program covers all tuition and comprehensive fees for up to 30 college credits during a student’s first year at Penn Highlands, ensuring that higher education remains accessible and affordable for local communities.

Smart Start was established as a transformative pilot initiative that enables recent Cambria County high school graduates to begin their college education with minimal to no personal expenses.

The Nonprofit Partnership Training and Initiatives Project began in 2025, after the College received the initial funding to develop the Nonprofit Learning Industry Partnership.

The Project assists agency partners with workforce recruitment and training opportunities. Partners will appreciate the advantages of a centralized training center for sharing and accessing resources for new hires and current employees, while offering relevant, cost-effective training programs for non-profit employees who deliver essential services to residents of the communities in Cambria and Somerset Counties.

“The continued support of the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies is instrumental to the success of the Non-Profit Learning Industry Partnership,” stated Julie Davis, Dean of Workforce Development. “This funding allows us to provide affordable, relevant training that helps non-profit professionals enhance their skills, strengthen their organizations, and better serve our communities. We look forward to another successful year of delivering impactful professional development opportunities, and cannot thank the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies enough for their ongoing partnership and commitment to this important initiative.”

To date, the partnership has more than 100 members.

“Strong workforce development programs are essential to the long-term success of our region,” stated Mike Kane, President of the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies. “We are happy to support both of these projects that ensure accessible and quality education and training for local students and non-profit leaders.”

The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies has been assisting citizens in the community for more than 35 years. The Foundation supports donors’ generosity to work through strategic grant-making and connect individuals with opportunities to make an impact, while also supporting grassroots efforts, collaborating with community partners, and facilitating philanthropy across the region.

Penn Highlands contributes a strong foundation of academic excellence, innovative curricula, and a steadfast commitment to student success. With experienced educators and modern infrastructure, the College cultivates an environment that encourages critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong learning.