MCALLEN, Texas - The profile of Mercedes-based nonprofit Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA) is being raised with every new grant it receives.
However, some Rio Grande Valley residents may not realize that the initiative was started by Valley Interfaith, around 28 years ago.
Two Valley Interfaith leaders, Rosalie Tristan, from Raymondville, and Joe Hinojosa, from McAllen, were present for the latest check presentation to VIDA.
A $3 million grant was provided to VIDA through the Department of Labor Health Care Professional Expansion Initiative to help purchase, among other things, cutting-edge video simulation software that enhances and creates virtual training opportunities for South Texas College nursing students. The software was designed and installed by Intelligent Video Solutions of Wisconsin.
“For Valley Interfaith to be part of the beginning of a program like this and to see how effective it has become is just mind blowing,” said Tristan.
Hinojosa agreed. “Today is the fulfillment of some of the dreams Valley Interfaith had over 28 years ago.”
VIDA's mission statement is: Empowering Rio Grande Valley residents to achieve economic prosperity through market-driven training, resources, and career pathways. Its motto is: Educating one life at a time.
Hinojosa said he hoped more cities would follow the lead of McAllen and provide funding for VIDA's programs.
Editor's Note: Here is a video interview with Hinojosa from the VIDA/STC/IVS ribbon-cutting ceremony:
https://youtu.be/EtUSQx0xRnU
