Foundation Communities believes it is important to offer “at your door” educational opportunities to adults. Most people working for low wages have to work more than one job or work overtime just to support themselves and their families. This leaves little time for education and training. We make acquiring skills more feasible by providing training at a convenient time and place. For many of our residents, this means classes are held right in their own apartment complexes. Classes are also open to the surrounding community and are free to all participants.

We offer classes for adults on the following topics:
• English as a Second Language
• Job training
• Financial literacy (offered in English and Spanish)
• Asset management (required for the Individual Development Account program)
• GED
• Computer training

 


Sierra Ridge residents participate in a class on buying a home.

Free Minds Project

Many adults with low-wage jobs want to go back to school, but there always seems to be something standing in the way -- a work schedule, taking care of children, costly tuition bills or even fear.

Now through a collaboration with the UT Humanities Institute and Austin Community College, the Free Minds Project is helping people with low incomes overcome those barriers. Free Minds classes meet on two evenings each week at the Trails at Vintage Creek Learning Center for free instruction in writing, literature, history and more.

Participants in the two-semester program receive:

  • 6 college credits
  • Free tuition, books, and childcare
  • Instruction from the best UT and ACC professors
  • Individual writing instruction
  • College and career counseling
  • Information on applying for financial aid

If you would like to be added to the mailing list to receive an application by mail, please call (512) 471-2654 or send an e-mail to information@humanitiesinstitute.utexas.edu indicating your interest in the Free Minds Project.

For more information, including how to enroll, visit the UT Humanities Institute Web site.

 


BACK TO TOP

 

After getting divorced and laid off from her job in San Antonio, Shannon Epley was struggling with financial issues. She moved to Austin for a new job, but the first apartment she found was expensive and not kid-friendly. Then Shannon discovered Southwest Trails, where her rent is more affordable and her 7- and 10-year-old daughters enjoy after-school programs at the Community Learning Center. The money Shannon saves on child care and rent makes it easier for her to make ends meet. She has even gotten involved leading a Campfire USA group at the learning center. “I’m happy to contribute to this community in any way I can,” Shannon says.