TEC Education Center sustains damages in flash flooding
Washington nonprofit helps prepare people with disabilities for workforce
A nonprofit school that helps people with disabilities to prepare for employment and find meaningful work is facing extensive repairs after a powerful Sept. 12 storm caused severe water damage to its campus and interrupted students’ education.
TEC Education Center at 330 Central Ave., Washington, which is part of Transitional Employment Consultants, sustained damage when flash flooding caused by the storm damaged educational materials, equipment, and infrastructure. Items like a stove, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer were lost in the flooding.
Staff arrived at the campus to discover damage to the building after severe thunderstorms unleashed torrential downpours across Washington County, prompting the city of Washington to declare a local state of emergency.
“This has created a significant challenge for our school and for the students and families who depend on TEC to provide a safe, supportive environment where students can learn, grow, develop independence, and prepare for their futures,” said executive director Kendra Casella in an email. “This is more than damage to a building. It directly impacts our ability to provide the educational, transition, and employment services our students and individuals with disabilities rely upon.”
Administrators said the building – which sustained about $120,000 in damages – is currently closed to students, and some of the 10 students have been transitioned to an alternate program, and staff are working to adapt lessons so that students do not lose momentum in their workforce and transition training.
The organization provides services to individuals in Washington and Fayette counties.
TEC also has launched a campaign to help during its recovery.
It is seeking financial contributions, donated materials or supplies, professional services, and business or community partnerships, and is seeking connection with organizations or individuals who may be able to help.
“Every contribution, anything people can do to help would be helpful,” said Casella.
To learn more or find out how to help, visit www.tecwork.org or call 724-225-3535.