State Grants to Fund Mental Health Support and Trades Training

Lake Land College Board of Trustees Meeting | Dec. 8, 2025

Article Summary: The board accepted over $500,000 in state grants aimed at strengthening mental health services and expanding vocational training programs. Funds will support new equipment, student internships, and curriculum development for plumbing and electrical careers.

Grant Acceptance Key Points:

• Trades Funding: A $298,564 grant will support “Taking Back the Trades,” focusing on plumbing and electrical career pathways for young adults.

• Mental Health: A $170,898 grant will expand the “Mental Health Early Action on Campus” initiative, including the hiring of interns and purchasing a well-being assessment tool.

• Bridge Program: A $60,751 grant will support adult education students transitioning into transportation careers.

The Lake Land College Board of Trustees on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, accepted three grants from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) designed to support student welfare and workforce development.

The largest award was a $298,564 “Taking Back the Trades” grant. Grant Writer Beth Craig noted in a memo that the funds will be used to engage alternative and district high school students in plumbing and electrical careers. The grant will cover curriculum, software, and equipment purchases—including “electric go-karts to promote electrical training and application.”

The board also accepted a $170,898 grant to strengthen mental health supports. This funding will allow the college to hire three mental health interns from Eastern Illinois University, contract for psychiatric evaluation services, and renew a “TalkCampus” subscription.

Additionally, a $60,751 “Innovative Bridge and Transitions” grant was approved. This pilot program aims to help adult education students, including GED and ESL learners, obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).