About the Workforce Development Hub
The foundation for the work being planned for the Hub started with the establishment of the Parent College program, part of the CF/RIC Innovation Lab, a unique initiative that provided educational opportunities to parents, family members and caregivers from Central Falls. By offering families a variety of classes and workshops, free childcare and a nutritious meal for all participants and children, The Parent College brought the community together, promoted additional growth and development, and positively contributed to children’s academic and social-emotional success. To date, this initiative has served over 200 families living in Central Falls with a waiting list of adults interested in accessing daytime programming.
In 2018, Rhode Island College President Frank D. Sánchez convened a group of business, educational, healthcare and governmental leaders to form the Central Falls/Rhode Island College Collective working toward a shared vision to create an economic, educational and health-centered engine for the residents of Central Falls and the Blackstone Valley community.
The City of Central Falls submitted a grant (in partnership with Rhode Island College) to RI Housing and was approved for funding for 934 Dexter Street; a 22,000 square foot facility on .9 acres of land.
Our partners include representatives from each of the following organizations:
- City of Central Falls
- Central Falls School District
- Progreso Latino
- Skills for Rhode Island’s Future
- Social Enterprise Greenhouse
- Blackstone Valley Community Health Center
