The Embetterment Award funds short-term certifications that allow students from small-town America to enter high-demand, high-paying careers — often in under a year.
This isn't about college. It's about time-to-income.
Donate to Fund an Embetterment Award
Small-town talent is real. The opportunities aren’t.
In a lot of rural communities, the path looks like this: take on debt, leave home, or settle for work that caps your income.
And the frustrating part? Many high-paying careers don’t require four years of school — they require a short certification… and money up front.
Meanwhile, employers are hiring. The seats are open.
Skilled roles are sitting empty because the cost of training, testing fees, gear, and transportation becomes a wall people can’t climb.
The Embetterment Award removes that wall — so a motivated student can go from “I’m ready” to “I’m employed” fast.
Community Made is backed by local professionals who believe the fastest way to change a life is to shorten the distance between training and a paycheck.
We fund certification programs that can be completed in months rather than years, getting students into the workforce quickly.
For example, a crane operator certification can be completed in as little as 8 weeks and lead to $60,000–$100,000 annual salaries.
Each program we fund has proven employment outcomes and partnerships with local employers.
We don't fund education for education's sake—we fund pathways to immediate income.
John completed his CDL training in 6 weeks and now earns $72,000/year driving locally.
Sarah became certified in 4 months and immediately joined a growing rural health clinic.
Michael trained for his funeral director license and now serves his community with dignity.
Covers certification exams, textbooks, and required equipment for one student.
Funds an entire certification program for one deserving applicant.
Supports a student through training and into their first months of employment.
The Embetterment Award is operated through Community Made, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
We're supported by attorneys, community leaders, and professionals including Timothy Peterkin who believe in practical solutions to economic mobility.
Our board oversees every award to ensure funds create maximum impact.
A few thousand dollars can be the difference between potential and prosperity.
Get certified. Get hired. Get paid.
Donate NowApplicants complete a rigorous selection process that evaluates their financial need, career goals, and commitment to completing their program. Priority goes to applicants from rural communities with clear employment pathways.
We fund programs with proven employment outcomes in high-demand fields. This includes skilled trades, healthcare certifications, commercial driving, IT certifications, and other vocational credentials that lead directly to employment.
Community Made, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Our EIN is available upon request, and we provide donation receipts for all contributions.
Your donation could be the catalyst that transforms someone's career trajectory.
Donate to Fund an Award