Road to Responsibility (http://roadtoresponsibility.org), one of the region’s largest nonprofit organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has announce a collaboration with Quincy College and its Academic Division of Nursing.
As a result of a state American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant, between 10 and 12 RTR employees will be eligible to enroll in the College’s nursing program, with most receiving training as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a lesser number as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Those enrolling in the 10-month LPN program will first be required to take prerequisite courses during the spring semester at Quincy College prior to beginning the certificate program this fall for final LPN certification in June 2024. Those entering the RN program will likewise enroll in prerequisite courses at the College, then begin a two-year program this fall with a target graduation date of June 2025.
“This collaboration will stabilize a critical element of our workforce which now is being covered largely by temporary staff,” said Christopher T. S. White, Ed. D., president and CEO of Road to Responsibility. “As such, our clients will receive care from consistent staff members, enabling them to develop more trust, rapport, and sense of comfort.”
“Plus, the collaboration will provide staff members with a new career path, once certified as either an LPN or RN, and with it better paying employment opportunities,” said White.
“The value of a Quincy College education – and the return on investment our students enjoy – has never been greater,” said Quincy College President Dr. Richard DeCristofaro. “We hope this unique partnership with RTR serves as a model for other area organizations seeking to expand educational opportunities for members of their workforce.”
