Krista Solomon was appointed as a Director on the board of The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona in March, 2023. She is the Executive Director of Acoya Troon Scottsdale Senior Living Community.

Krista has been a member of the Rotary Club of Anthem since September, 2016. She served as their Club President in 2019-2022. In 2022-23, Krista served as her club’s Vocational Service Chair in addition to serving as an Assistant Governor in Rotary District 5495.

Kristi shared the following indicating the “why” for her willingness to take on a leadership role in TRVFA:

“Having worked in Health Care for several years I have personally witnessed the impact of an entry level staff rise through vocational training. As a Rotarian I see the value through the TRVFA and supporting this important program. Scholarships provide access to education and training for individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford it. By removing barriers, scholarships increase access to training and education allowing individuals to pressure in fields they may have not previously considered. In addition, through TRVFA individuals’ who are already in the workforce to advance their careers by providing them with the necessary education and training. This will lead to increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and better job security. Overall, scholarships for vocational training and career advancement are an important tool for promoting access to education and training, advancing careers, driving economic growth, and addressed skill shortages. “

The following table will show you how grant activity compares so far this fiscal year to all of 2021-22.

 

Our fiscal year starts July 1 each year.  When we began the 2021-22 year, we carried a large number of pending grants forward, so it may appear that we are having a slow-down in activity.  That does not seem to be the case, but there are some observable differences in the grant applications coming in so far this year. 

 

A larger percentage of grants are outside of medical-related vocations.  We are seeing more applications from community college students, but we are still needing to reach those needing vocational education in our rural communities in Arizona.  We know there are active vocational education programs at virtually all the outlying community colleges, and we sincerely hope their qualifying students will apply for our grants.  

 

This is the time of year when donations are slow.  If you are in a position to make your tax credit donation now or commit to monthly recurring donations, please CLICK HERE to access our on-line donation form.  We cannot do what we do without donors like you!