SUFFOLK, Va. — There is one nonprofit organization in Suffolk doing a lot of good for the future of healthcare.
Nursing Cap, Inc. looks to diversify the industry in its name, connecting more young minorities to opportunities in healthcare.
Regina McKinney started the organization in 2013. Having spent more than twenty years as a nurse anesthetist, she wanted to inspire and set an example for young minorities still in school.
“That is primarily the number one goal for the program,” said McKinney. “We wanted to diversify the nursing workforce.”
Nursing Cap now offers a yearly program, two Saturdays a month, for middle and high school students. They are mentored, tutored and offered career development services in a variety of healthcare industries.
Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk gives the nonprofit space at the hospital to conduct workshops, which gives the students an important, intimate look at a future in healthcare.
“Being in this environment for a student…just seeing yourself here, I believe you’re halfway there,” said McKinney.
50% of the students Nursing Cap, Inc. has mentored are working in nursing and other healthcare fields today.
“Then they come back, and we have them volunteer, so it’s become full circle for us,” said McKinney.
McKinney credits her upbringing for the passion she has today in improving the lives of students in Hampton Roads.
“One thing my parents instilled in me,” said McKinney. “Once you get educated go out and pull in other kids around you.”
You can help Nursing Cap, Inc. by donating ahead of Give Local 757 day.