Our Mission

Great River Development Foundation is an Illinois not-for-profit corporation formed for the purpose of enhancing the quality of life of individuals with limited opportunities, including at-risk students, military veterans, and non-violent public offenders, by providing career development, vocational training, and employment rehabilitation services with the aim of building a path to self-sufficiency.
To facilitate this mission, the Foundation plans to conduct seasonal fundraising events in the community and apply for governmental grants to raise funds to subsidize the cost of individuals attending and participating in development and educational classes offered by the Foundation. The various activities regarding career development, vocational training, and employment rehabilitation services will be conducted in and around Adams County, Illinois by volunteers and possibly employees in the future.  Those activities go directly to the purpose of the Foundation by assisting individuals with employment related items.

Recent Projects

Adams County Empowerment

Adams County Empowered (ACE) helps people on probation with assistance finding stable employment. The program, which aims to provide stronger job opportunities for unemployed residents on probation, has assisted 29 individuals since it was first implemented in April 2021.

 

Career Launch Signing Day

Career Launch Signing Day, was designed to celebrate these driven young individuals who have chosen to pursue in-demand regional careers and have now secured employment with local employers.

During the event students will take center stage to sign an empowering “work ready” pledge and received a special certificate from the Adams County Career Guidance Team. This event is made possible through the collaborative effort among the Adams County Career Guidance Team, GREDF, QAVTC, and John Wood Community College.

Adams County Works

A ready workforce is critical for businesses and industry to remain competitive and thrive in the global marketplace. That is why Quincy & Adams County, IL have taken significant steps to invest in the region’s workforce for today and for the future.

Adams County Works Teams focus on 3 areas for strategic workforce development. Representatives from businesses, education, social services and economic development are identifying and overcoming barriers to employment to meet your future workforce needs.