Workforce Solutions of Central Texas Expands Wrenches to Wheels Program with New Partnerships
BELTON, Texas – Workforce Solutions of Central Texas is thrilled to announce the continuation of the highly successful Wrenches to Wheels program, now with significant expansion through new partnerships with United Way of Central Texas and Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center.
Program Overview and New Partnerships
The Wrenches to Wheels program, which has already made a considerable impact, aims to equip middle school students with essential life skills through the engaging and hands-on experience of building bicycles. This summer, the program will welcome the participation of Academy Independent School District, Belton Independent School District, Cameron Independent School District, and Gatesville Independent School District.
Stephanie O’Banion, CEO of United Way of Central Texas, discusses the importance of this initiative: “Problem-solving skills are critical for today’s youth to be successful. Through the Wrenches to Wheels program, we are not only building bikes but also building essential life skills that will empower our Central Texas youth to navigate challenges and thrive in their future endeavors.”
The generous financial commitment from United Way of Central Texas will ensure that students not only build bikes, but also have the opportunity to own them. This collaboration emphasizes the community’s role in supporting and nurturing young talent.
Krista Easley, Coordinator for Trauma Injury Prevention and Outreach at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center, expresses her excitement about the expanded partnership: “We are honored to partner with an initiative that meets a large spectrum of needs in the Central Texas community and focuses on a priority of Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center – preventing unintentional childhood injury.”
Program Details and Impact
Students will be partnered with community leaders who will mentor them throughout the bike-building process, imparting valuable skills such as mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and problem-solving. The program’s culmination in the construction of a bike provides a tangible and rewarding experience for the students, instilling confidence and practical knowledge.
Moreover, the expanded partnership with Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center introduces a vital component of bicycle safety. After completing the bike-building phase, students will receive additional instruction on safe riding practices, including the provision of bike helmets, enhancing the educational aspect of the program.
Conclusion
Through the combined efforts of United Way of Central Texas and Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center, students will not only leave the program with a bike and helmet but also with a deeper understanding of safety, technical careers, and essential life skills. The Wrenches to Wheels: Building Bikes and Building Skills program is funded by the Jobs Ya’ll Grant, provided by the Texas Workforce Commission to the Student Occupational Awareness and Recognition program of Workforce Solutions of Central Texas. This initiative is further supported by our generous community partners, ensuring its continued success and impact.
If you want more information on how to get involved with Wrenches to Wheels, please contact the United Way of Central Texas.
