For the past three years, The Almanor Foundation (TAF) has focused its efforts on addressing Plumas County’s housing crisis. But as we look toward the long‑term stability of our region, we are turning a vital page in our “Next Chapter”: Workforce Development.
Today, we are proud to introduce the Career & Technical Education (CTE) Innovation & Support Funds, a strategic initiative designed to “future‑proof” career education right here in Plumas County.
Why: Investing in the Talent Already Here
Plumas County faces a dual challenge: a shortage of skilled workers and a lack of housing for newcomers. The solution, however, is already in our classrooms.
- Our students are already here.
- They are already housed.
- And they are eager to build their futures in the communities they love.
By investing in CTE—programs that prepare students for high‑wage, high‑growth careers through hands‑on learning—we create local, affordable pathways that allow students to stay. Whether in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, digital media, or skilled trades, CTE programs equip students with the certifications and 21st‑century skills needed for a stable, thriving local economy.
How: A Platform for Strategic Philanthropy
The CTE Innovation & Support Funds Initiative acts as the administrative backbone that connects donors and businesses directly to educational needs. It offers full agency to supporters through two primary avenues:
The Countywide CTE Innovation & Support Fund
This fund supports unmet needs across all schools—Charter and Public. It provides grants for industry‑standard equipment, certification fees, and support for teacher training.
Give to a Specific School or Program
Plumas County’s Charter Schools—including the Learning Centers in Chester and Quincy and Indian Valley Academy—have opened dedicated funds with TAF. Donors may choose to support these schools or specific pathways.
Plumas Unified School District is currently exploring participation. While those funds are not yet active, donors who wish to support PUSD programs can do so through the Countywide Fund, which ensures resources reach all schools as participation expands.
TAF provides trusted financial stewardship and transparent reporting for every dollar, ensuring alignment with real workforce needs.
Spotlight: The Power of Business Partnerships
A central pillar of this initiative is the Pathway Partner Program. We believe CTE works best when aligned with the “blueprints” held by local industry leaders.
Through this program, businesses can Adopt a Career Pathway that aligns with their industry and support students through:
- Guest instruction or mentorship
- Job‑shadowing, internships, apprenticeships and field experiences
- Helping TAF identify the skills most needed in today’s job market
These partnerships go beyond financial support—they build relationships, confidence, and opportunity.
What We’re Doing Next: Our Five‑Step Journey
The TAF board has already completed Step One: Going Back to School. We visited campuses across the county—from Chester to Portola—and were inspired by the passion and talent already present in our classrooms.
Here’s what comes next:
Step Two: Listen to Local Employers
We are inviting businesses to host TAF for a visit. We want to hear about your hiring challenges and the skills your industry needs to grow.
Step Three: Identify High‑Impact Opportunities
We will evaluate where philanthropy can move the needle most—whether through program expansion, modernizing labs, or supporting new certifications.
Step Four: Bring the Community In
We will raise countywide awareness for these programs, ensuring they receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Step Five: Join Us
We invite you to follow our journey as we align schools, businesses, and philanthropy to build a skilled, locally rooted workforce.
A Future Built Here, By Us
The world is held together by people who know how to build it.
Together, we can ensure those people are trained, supported, and inspired—right here in Plumas County.
Whether you choose to support a Charter School directly or invest through the Countywide CTE Innovation & Support Fund, your contribution helps create opportunities that keep talent, passion, and possibility rooted in our community.
Join us in empowering the next generation.
Make a gift. Become a partner. Build the future with us.
