FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts: Robyn Grable, The ASCEND Collective, Robyn@theascendcollective.org
Bryanna Brown, Truist, media@truist.com
Simpsonville, SC, May 20, 2025 – The ASCEND Collective is proud to announce it has received a generous grant from Truist Foundation to support the creation of Northern Compass Academy, a groundbreaking new virtual learning academy designed to empower job seekers with the tools and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment.
Northern Compass Academy will serve as a vital part of The ASCEND Collective’s mission to eliminate barriers in the workforce by offering skill-focused, accessible learning resources. The virtual learning sessions will guide candidates—especially those from underserved communities, including veterans, military spouses, diversely abled, previously incarcerated, and career changers—through personalized preparation strategies, career marketability, and practical insights to help them thrive in today’s job market.
“Thanks to the support from Truist Foundation, we’re taking a significant step forward in transforming the way people prepare for employment,” said Robyn Grable, Founder and CEO of The ASCEND Collective. “Northern Compass Academy will not only equip candidates with the knowledge they need but also instill confidence and purpose in their journey toward long-term career success.”
The funding from Truist Foundation will help The ASCEND Collective accelerate development and delivery of the Academy’s modules, ensuring an inclusive, skills-first approach to employment readiness that aligns with the organization’s proven blind- matching employment model.
“Our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities,” said Truist Market President Chris Zimmer. “We’re proud to partner with The ASCEND Collective as it builds a new virtual learning academy to empower job seekers.”
About The ASCEND Collective
The ASCEND Collective is a mission-driven organization dedicated to removing barriers in the workforce through innovative technology, advocacy, and skills-based hiring practices. Through strategic partnerships and community-focused programming, The ASCEND Collective is changing how employers connect with top talent.
About Truist Foundation
Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation’s (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. The Foundation, an endowed private foundation established in 2020 whose operating budget is independent of Truist Financial Corporation, makes strategic investments in a wide variety of nonprofit organizations centered around two focus areas: building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses to ensure all communities have an opportunity to thrive. Embodying these focus areas are the Foundation’s leading initiatives – the Inspire Awards and Where It Starts. Learn more at Truist.com/Foundation .
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