Foundation Strives to Enhance Employee Potential

The Economic Development and Corporate Training (EDCT) Division, the not-for-credit arm of the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD), recently established the EDCT Foundation, created to help further the goals of the EDCT, which includes providing educational opportunities and services to unemployed and under-employed workers across the Inland Empire. Effective Nov. 12, 2013, the EDCT Foundation is approved by the Internal Revenue Service/Department of Treasury as a 501 (c)(3) Tax Exempt organization. Classified as a ‘public charity’ organization under the IRC Section 170, donors can deduct contributions they make to the EDCT Foundation. The Foundation is qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts. SBCCD Board of Trustees President John Longville said, “We all share one vision for the Inland Empire: full employment, a skilled workforce and a thriving economy! Our two colleges serve students through for-credit associate’s degrees, career-technical education and transfer preparation to four-year colleges and universities. The EDCT works with businesses to enhance employee potential.” Chancellor Bruce Baron explained, “The mission of the EDCT includes partnering with Inland Empire businesses and industries to increase the competitiveness of our economy through providing a skilled workforce. To date, the EDCT has served more than 60,000 students by raising more than $28 million in grants and corporate support over the past decade. The Foundation will allow for even greater achievements, serving even more students.” Dr. Matthew Isaac, Associate Vice Chancellor, EDCT, said, “The creation of a Foundation for the EDCT allows for more direct, tax-deductible support from individuals, small businesses, other foundations and 501(c)(3) organizations, and corporations. The EDCT Foundation will support our students and the companies EDCT serves by providing scholarships, improving facilities and equipment and developing new, in-demand workforce development programs."