Long-Term Care Workforce Grant

South Central Service Cooperative Awarded "Supporting New Americans in the Long-Term Care Workforce" Grant Program to Provide Culturally Responsive Training, Career Support, and Resources for Immigrants Pursuing Careers in Long-Term Care 

Picture of student in scrubs sitting by a computerMankato, MN – The South Central Service Cooperative (SCSC) is excited to announce it has been awarded the Supporting New Americans in the Long-Term Care Workforce Grant in the amount of $796,185 from Minnesota Department of Human Services! In collaboration with the Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC), Mankato Adult Basic Education (ABE), South Central Workforce Council, and the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC), this initiative will provide vital resources to help new Americans enter high-demand roles in the long-term care (LTC) sector. The grant will strengthen the region’s healthcare workforce by empowering immigrant and refugee communities with the skills, training, and support necessary to thrive in career pathways.

Through a multilingual, culturally responsive program, participants will receive training in essential long-term care roles such as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Personal Care Aides, and Dietary Aides. In addition to classroom instruction, the program leverages cutting-edge technology, including Virtual Reality (VR) and AI simulations, developed in partnership with MetaMedicsVR, to offer immersive, real-life healthcare scenarios. These simulations provide hands-on learning while addressing language and cultural barriers.

“This grant provides a unique opportunity for new Americans to step into the healthcare workforce confidently, " said Glenn Morris, South Central Service Cooperative Executive Director. “Through targeted training, job placement support, and essential services like childcare and housing, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and building a sustainable workforce pipeline for the long-term care industry.”

Program Highlights:

  • Multilingual CNA and LTC Training: Online courses available in English, Spanish, and Somali, ensuring language support throughout the program.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) and AI Training: Participants will use immersive, culturally responsive simulations to prepare for real-world LTC scenarios.
  • Virtual Career Fairs: In collaboration with CILC, virtual career fairs will be hosted to connect participants with professionals in different healthcare pathways.
  • Essential Support Services: To facilitate their transition into the workforce, participants will receive assistance with childcare, housing, transportation, and applications for public assistance.


The program’s comprehensive approach includes career readiness workshops and job placement services, helping participants secure high-demand LTC roles. With an increasing need for healthcare professionals, the program aims to train over 100 participants in its first year, preparing them for long-term employment in roles that offer competitive wages and advancement opportunities.

“The demand for skilled workers in long-term care continues to grow, and this program is designed to address that shortage while offering new Americans a pathway to meaningful careers,” said Amanda Bell, Grant Program Coordinator at SCSC. “Our focus on multilingual training, cultural sensitivity, and real-life simulations ensures participants receive the tools they need to succeed in the U.S. healthcare system.”

The success of the New Americans in the LTC program is built on solid partnerships. Mankato Adult Basic Education (ABE) will provide education services to enhance English proficiency, while the Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) will support participants with social services, including housing, childcare, and public assistance navigation. The South Central Workforce Council will connect participants with job opportunities and help them navigate the employment landscape. MetaMedicsVR and CILC will also bring advanced virtual reality and AI technologies into the program, creating an innovative, immersive learning experience that simulates real-world healthcare environments.

About South Central Service Cooperative

South Central Service Cooperative (SCSC) is a regional service agency that supports schools, governmental agencies, and communities through innovative programs and partnerships. We are committed to enhancing the region's workforce development, education, and community well-being.

Media Contacts:
Amanda Bell
South Central Service Cooperative
abell@mnscsc.org
Allyson Mitchell
CILC
amitchell@cilc.org
507-386-2972