College and Vocational Schools

Build Smart Institute: 701 Gainsboro Road, Roanoke, 24016 | 540-900-3340 |Text 540-900-3337 info@buildsmartinstitute.com | Facebook page | Educates and trains individuals to become career-ready and advance within construction industry occupations, using a combination of virtual learning, classroom instruction, and hands-on laboratory skill practice. Many certifications are available. Training in the areas of construction, plumbing, framing, electrical, project management, and more.

Community Solutions Center: 2328 Melrose Avenue NW| 540-521-2242 | Meal production training program. Programs in collaboration with Goodwill, Food Lion, Roanoke Police, Feeding Southwest Virginia, and community leaders.

EnVision Center: Located across from the RRHA Main Office (Lansdowne), 2607 Salem Turnpike NW, Roanoke, 24017 | Facebook page | (540) 983-9252 | Offers career counseling, resume development, education, financial literacy classes, job training resources, community and individual health needs, and other resources in partnership with other area agencies including Carilion Clinic, Virginia Western Community College, Financial Empowerment Center, Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Virginia Career Works, and more. Office open 8:30 am to 5 pm, with special programs offered at other times. Services are open to the public and residents of the housing authority.

Franklin Center: 50 Claiborne Avenue, Rocky Mount, 24151 | 540-483-0179 | InfoAtTheFranklinCenter@franklincountyva.gov | The Franklin Center for Advanced Learning and Enterprise offers employment, training, and educational services to employers and citizens of Franklin County.

Roanoke Higher Education Center: 108 North Jefferson Street, Roanoke, 24016 | 540-767-6161 | Programs available for doctorate, master's, bachelor's, associate's, and training/certificate degrees; see the full list here.

Virginia Western Community College: 3094 Colonial Avenue SW, Roanoke, 24015 | 540-857-8922 | See all areas of study, career and corporate training, and fast track programs. Scholarships and financial support available which may include free tuition, student grants, and wraparound services for students meeting full federal Pell grant requirements. Select programs through the G3 Initiative are completely free for anyone whose household is at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Line.

Total Action for Progress: 302 2nd Street SW, Roanoke, 24011 | 540-767-6224 | Assistance with obtaining GED and job training programs including CNA, CCMA, food handling, various construction certifications, IT certification, forklift and tractor-trailer operating, and other healthcare related certifications, including pharmacy technician. Stipends, transportation assistance, appropriate clothing, and childcare may also be provided depending on program type and eligibility requirements. Special employment programs for veterans.

Financial Resources

Freedom First Credit Union: 5002 Cross Road NW, Roanoke, 24012 | 540-378-8928 | CDloans@freedomfirst.com | Workforce development loans for members who are pursuing training for skills necessary for living-wage jobs. Membership open to anyone who lives, works, goes to school, or worships within the service area.