Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Mercedes, Texas – Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA) proudly announces a $400,000 anonymous donation to be distributed over two years. This significant contribution will allow VIDA to expand its efforts to create career pathways for low-income students and enhance economic mobility in the Rio Grande Valley.
The donor’s generosity underlines a profound commitment to investing in the success of today’s students. These funds will directly support VIDA’s comprehensive approach to workforce development by providing essential support services, career guidance, intensive case management, and financial assistance to participants.
“We are incredibly grateful for this transformative gift,” said Felida Villarreal, President & CEO of VIDA. “This funding will strengthen wraparound services for college students pursuing degrees or certifications in high-demand fields. VIDA remains steadfast in our mission to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty in the Rio Grande Valley by fostering economic mobility through career pathways—especially at a time when ensuring college persistence and completion is more critical than ever.”
This remarkable contribution provides essential financial support and demonstrates the impact individuals and organizations can make when they collaborate to address pressing community challenges. VIDA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the anonymous donor for their generosity and trust in its mission.
For nearly three decades, VIDA has empowered over 6,000 economically disadvantaged residents in the Valley to complete career training programs and achieve self-sufficiency. In 2024 alone, VIDA supported 742 participants with an impressive 91% persistence rate. Participants entered the program earning an average hourly wage of $5.70. They graduated with employment opportunities averaging over $22.96 per hour—a true representation of human capital investment and aligning workforce skills with local industry demand.
