Altra kicks in $30,000 to 'Forging a Future' initiative

Altra Federal Credit Union is the latest Winona area business or organization to show its support and commitment to providing Winona Area Public Schools students with state-of-the-art equipment, hands-on courses and limitless possibilities. 

Altra has committed to a $30,000 contribution over the next three years to support the “Forging a Future” initiative, a fundraising campaign that seeks to rebuild and reimagine career and technical education in Winona Area Public Schools.

“At Altra Federal Credit Union, we are passionate about helping young people in our community live their best lives,” said Danielle Anderson, Assistant Vice President. “Forging a Future aligns perfectly with that mission by giving students hands-on, skill-based learning experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers and a strong future right here in our region.”

Forging a Future began in the spring of 2023. It started with an advisory group of individuals representing local manufacturers and educational institutions to give WAPS administrators and teachers guidance in bringing the program back to life. There have been incremental improvements since — expanded work study opportunities, more connections with local businesses, additional classes for WSHS students — and things have really started to take off in recent months. 

Just before the school year began, the Foundation for Winona Area Public Schools announced its annual fundraising events would benefit the Forging a Future initiative, setting a goal of $100,000. District leaders have also been meeting with local businesses to share their vision for the type of programming that could be possible with additional support beyond what is raised by the Foundation.

In addition to Altra, the Eagles Club has contributed $15,000, a local manufacturer that wishes to remain anonymous pledged $20,000, and the district was awarded a $7,500 grant from the Farmers Insurance Corporate Citizenship Program. 

Other organizations have pledged private support, while many others have increased their in-kind contributions, whether that is through donated equipment, contributing their time on the advisory group or by visiting classes, hosting students on tours and setting up work study opportunities. 

“The response from our business community has been overwhelmingly positive of this initiative, and Altra is the latest to step forward,” Superintendent Brad Berzinski said. “We are incredibly grateful for their generous contribution, and we look forward to our vision for expanded CTE programming becoming a reality in Winona Area Public Schools.”

For more information on the Forging a Future initiative, visit winonaschools.org/forging.