During his first year in Florida, Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD) supported nearly 450 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) students, providing over $405,000 in free training and mandatory support services. Innovative national nonprofits are committed to dealing with the crisis of the nation’s healthcare workers, empowering individuals through life-changing career paths in healthcare.
The results are detailed in DWD’s newly released Florida Impact Report for 2024, highlighting the success of its person-centered approach. By combining healthcare training with wraparound services such as comprehensive case management, transportation, childcare and housing, DWD not only increases access, but also improves retention and long-term career outcomes for participants across the state.
Dwyer Workforce Development began operating Florida by partnering with a local workforce committee, rapidly expanding its reach. Today, the organization has partnerships with over 30 partners, from universities and technical schools to non-profit training providers and healthcare providers. Through these partnerships, DWD supports academics with tuition support, one-on-one case management, and key round services such as housing, childcare, food and transportation.
After completing CNA training, academics can take the job with the help of Dwyer’s case manager, then pursue qualifications and continued career advancements in the healthcare industry.
Impressively, 81% of Dwyer scholars completed the CNA training program, and 86% of those who have been certified and have entered a medical career completed. These success rates are four times the national average.
Other important highlights of the impact of DWD in Florida include:
• Economic Impact: The estimated annual revenue potential for Floridad Wire Scholars served in 2024 is 16.3mm, indicating how DWD services contribute to academics’ long-term success.
• Community Partnership: DWD’s success is strengthened by strong partnerships with training, employers and nonprofit organizations.
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“The success we saw in Florida in our first year is a testament to our partnership and collaboration towards a common vision: providing career opportunities for those who are not serving and tackling the extremely challenging medical staff crisis in a state like Florida.” “I am very proud of my work in 2024 and look forward to what I have already done in 2025.”
A survey of 310 nursing homes and 23 living support facilities by the Florida Health Care Association found that 88% of long-term care facilities reported worsening labor shortages since 2020.
DWD currently serves multiple regions in Florida, including the Tampa Bay Area, Sarasota, Brevard, Melbourne, Jacksonville, and Marianna. Since its launch in 2025, DWD has trained more than 200 academics in Florida.
“Dwyer’s holistic and personalized approach leads to high accreditation and occupational placement rates for CNA scholars, helping them overcome challenges and launch successful healthcare careers.” “It is this authentic support that sets Dwyer apart and why CNA students have flourished.”
For more information, visit dwyerworkforcedev.org to donate to participate or support Dwyer scholars’ journey into life-changing careers
About Dwyer Workforce Development
Dwyer Workforce Development is a unique 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of pursuing a career in the healthcare industry, alleviating a serious healthcare shortage, and providing comprehensive support to individuals who lack opportunities to improve the lives of their seniors and communities. Dwyer Workforce Development provides program participants (Dwyer Scholars) certified nursing assistant (CNA) training, job placement support in healthcare facilities, needs-based wraparound services, and personal-centered case management to promote successful outcomes.
Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Jack Dwyer and his family, DWD is redefineing the implications of creating career pathways, strengthening healthcare professionals and improving patient outcomes. Under the leadership of CEO Barb Krapp, who was handpicked for Dwyer’s commitment to visionary leadership and equity, the organization grew rapidly from its Maryland headquarters and expanded its nationwide range, including Maryland, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania and Delaware.
