Hello! In this January issue of EOnews, we are covering:

• Hurricane Relief for Childcare Providers
• Internships
• People to Meet in 2025
• Career Coach Volunteers Needed
• New Giving Programs to Empower Southwest Virginia

Hurricane Relief for Childcare Providers

EO was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation to support seven Mixed Delivery sites impacted by Hurricane Helene. The grant funds have been allocated to cover damages and losses, which range from $200 for lost food supplies to $10,000 for critical roof repairs. These funds were distributed to the affected sites at the end of 2024, enabling them to recover and continue delivering essential services to families in their communities.

Invest in Your Employee Pipeline with Internships

EO is actively seeking business, industry, and community partners for its Ignite Internship program. This transformative initiative is designed to shape the future of Southwest Virginia’s workforce and work with partners to offer paid, hands-on summer internships for high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates.

Unlike typical summer jobs, Ignite Internships go beyond entry-level positions, offering students a front-row seat to the career possibilities available in today’s workforce. Join us in cultivating the next generation of talent and empowering young people to envision and achieve their future potential.

Contact Crystal Breeding at cbreeding@eoco.org to learn more or visit eoco.org/our-work/workforce/internships

Career Coach Volunteers Needed!

Students from the following schools are scheduled to visit Career Commons in the coming weeks and we’re looking for volunteer Career Coaches to support the visits!

• Scott Memorial School
• JW Adams Combined School
• Scott County Gifted School
• Coeburn Middle School
• Virginia High School

Career Coaches will receive training to lead guided job activities related to being a Dental Hygienist, X-ray Technician, Mechanic, Construction Worker, Truck Driver, and more. High school students will also learn about resume building and mock interviews.

For more information about volunteering, contact Tracey Childress, Event and Volunteer Program Coordinator, at tchildress@eoco.org or click the link below!

What is Career Commons?

People to Meet in 2025

Mary Anne Holbrook, Vice President of Development at EO, was recently named one of Virginia Business Magazine’s 100 People to Meet in 2025. She’s now in the company of bestselling authors, groundbreaking startup founders, top scientists, and visionary physicians—all making waves across the state. As a recognized Impact-Maker, Mary Anne has been transforming our region with passion, purpose, and relentless dedication.



Interested in meeting up with Mary Anne in 2025 to discuss your charitable goals? Send her an email at mholbrook@eoco.org

New Giving Programs

EO is proud to announce the launch of transformative giving initiatives designed to fuel long-term programs and services at the Regional Workforce and Child Development Hub. This state-of-the-art Hub will host 30,000 student visits annually and provide 300 new childcare slots—critical resources that address Southwest Virginia’s pressing educational and workforce development needs.  

EO invites you to partner in this life-changing work through one of its new giving programs, ensuring your generosity directly supports the emerging workforce, expands access to high-quality childcare and education, and enhances the wellbeing of children and families across the region.

• Founding Donors Campaign: As a founding donor, you not only support meaningful initiatives but also cement your place in a legacy of dedication and impact. The deadline to join is June 30, 2025. Learn more

• The Givers Society: Become a member of this distinguished annual giving society, uniting compassionate leaders who commit to advancing EO’s mission. Your generosity will drive change and inspire others. Learn more

• The Givers Club: Support EO’s critical initiatives with a recurring monthly gift. By joining The Givers Club, you’ll provide the steady, reliable funding needed to sustain EO’s impactful programs year-round. Learn more

New Positions Available

We are growing! Multiple new positions are available at EO. Take a moment to see if any of these careers might be a good fit for you or someone you know.

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