American Career College (ACC) has earned top honors as the recipient of the 2022 Excellence in Community Service Gold Award from the California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools (CAPPS).
The Excellence in Community Service Award recognizes CAPPS Member Schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to serving the needs of their local community
“Being of service to those in our community is an essential part of a career in healthcare and we integrate that into our education,” said Susan Pailet, Chief Academic Officer, ACC. “From working in our free dental clinics to providing COVID vaccines and testing, our students gain meaningful experience while also helping to improve the health of underserved communities where we work and live.”
ACC won the Gold Service Award for its many community initiatives and programs, including nearly 130 walkers raising money for the American Heart Association, donating more than 41,000 pieces of PPE, including masks, gowns and face shields, to medical and healthcare facilities, providing free COVID testing and vaccinations, as well hosting free dental and pediatric flu clinics. In addition, students, faculty and staff routinely volunteer to lead food drives and on-site support for local charities such as the Midnight Mission.
“This award belongs to all of our students, faculty and staff who have embraced the spirit of philanthropy and community service as a core value,” said Timothy Lee, Chief Operating Officer, ACC. “During the pandemic, the need for community-based healthcare programs, particularly in underserved areas, was never more important. I am so proud that students, faculty and staff participated in making a real difference in the lives of families most at risk in our neighboring communities.”
In addition to the community service performed by its students and associates, the college also contributes to the communities near its campuses through the ACC Educational Foundation. The Foundation’s HSE Academy, for example, provides a free high school equivalency education for in-need community members in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties. In this way, the ACC Educational Foundation makes it possible for students to earn their high school equivalency (HSE) certificates, opening the door to greater options for work and continued education. In 2021, nearly 290 students earned their HSE certificates.
