ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC) has been awarded $100,000 by the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation to purchase and operate a food truck for the MVESC Adult Success Program. The food truck will be operated by students in the MVESC Adult Success Program, offering significant benefits to both the participants and the broader community. For the students, it serves as a valuable opportunity for hands-on job training, equipping them with essential skills in food preparation, customer service, financial management, and teamwork. By engaging in practical, real-world tasks, students will develop greater independence, boost their confidence, and enhance their social communication abilities, fostering meaningful connections within the community.
Additionally, managing schedules and handling responsibilities enhances time management and problem-solving skills. This experience also promotes financial literacy, as students learn to budget, track expenses, and understand the basics of running a business. Most importantly, the food truck serves as a platform for inclusivity, demonstrating that individuals with disabilities are capable of contributing meaningfully to the workforce. The food truck not only benefits students but also enriches the community by promoting awareness and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. It is a powerful movement focused on empowerment, education, and community connection.
The grant from the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation will be instrumental in advancing the MVESC Adult Success Program mission. “Thanks to the generous support of the Straker Foundation, we will be able to enhance the MVESC Adult Success Program, offering valuable opportunities for developing essential skills while also contributing to the betterment of the community,” said Monte Bainter, Superintendent of Muskingum Valley ESC.
William and Mary Helen Straker launched the J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation in 1994. Today, ten descendants of J. William and Mary Helen Straker serve as its board of trustees. The trustees are committed to supporting projects that reflect the Strakers’ values: programs that foster community growth, enable young people to grow in character and integrity, enhance education, and increase community exposure to the arts and sciences.