December 9, 2025
The November 2025 edition of the GRIT Ohio newsletter celebrates a season of momentum, collaboration, and student success across Appalachian Ohio. As the backbone organization behind GRIT Ohio, Future Plans is proud to share highlights from a quarter marked by innovative partnerships, hands-on career exploration, and the expansion of opportunity for youth and adults alike.
Read the full local newsletter here
Empowering Students Through Career Discovery
This fall, GRIT Ohio’s reach extended to thousands of students through career assessments, coaching, and immersive events. In Monroe County, for example, River High School, Monroe Central High School, and Swiss Hills CTC sophomores completed the Future Plans Career Assessment and participated in hands-on discovery activities. These included visits from Long Ridge Energy, Union Trades Days, finance and manufacturing expos, and college fairs—each designed to connect classroom learning with real-world career pathways.
Showcasing Talent at Regional Summits
GRIT Summer Program alumni took center stage at regional workforce summits, sharing their journeys and inspiring peers. Notably, Kenneth Hopkins and Bryce Van Hoy, both recent graduates, opened a summit panel, while other alumni, such as Maddison Dietrich and Jordyn Crawford, contributed to sessions on connecting curriculum to careers. These events, moderated by Future Plans staff Sarah Redoutey and Lashley Mosser, highlighted the power of mentorship and the value of student voice in shaping the region’s future.
Building Workforce Connections
A major highlight was the Project BEST Career Fair at Wheeling Park, which drew over 1,000 students from the tri-state area. Attendees engaged directly with employers in the skilled trades, explored apprenticeship programs, and gained hands-on exposure to in-demand careers. Such events are vital in demystifying career pathways and building bridges between education and employment.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
Future Plans and GRIT Ohio continue to foster collaboration among workforce agencies, schools, and community organizations. The September cross-training session in Washington County brought together partners from GRIT, OOD, WIOA, CCMEP, and OhioMeansJobs to streamline referrals and share program updates. These efforts ensure that resources are maximized and that students and job seekers have access to high-quality training and support.
Community Outreach and Career Inspiration
Future Plans’ GRIT outreach extended to events like the Junior Achievement Inspire career exploration, where over 1,300 students from Muskingum and surrounding counties interacted with local businesses through hands-on activities. Such engagement is central to GRIT’s mission: helping individuals discover their strengths, connect with mentors, and pursue fulfilling careers in their own communities.
The Collective Impact
The November 2025 GRIT Ohio newsletter is a testament to the collective impact of Future Plans, its partners, and the communities they serve. By investing in career discovery, amplifying student voices, and strengthening regional networks, GRIT Ohio is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future across Appalachian Ohio.
For more stories and updates, visit the official newsletter: GRIT Ohio November 2025 Update – All Counties.
