Recent flooding along the Ohio River required a quick response by local emergency officials in Union County, Kentucky. And the Earle C. Clements Job Corps Academy was ready to help.

“We are forever grateful to the students and staff of Earle C. Clements Job Corps. Everything went perfectly, and we could not have done it without them. What an amazing training program for these young people,” said Union County, Kentucky Planning Commissioner Sean Sheffer. 

Job Corps volunteers filled, hauled, and placed approximately 2,000 sand bags in Sturgis, Kentucky and the surrounding area.

U.S. Congressman James Comer said,

“The Earle C. Clements Job Corps’ commitment to the betterment of their fellow citizens and the community itself is admirable and greatly appreciated…These recent efforts are further evidence of your profound impact on the First District of Kentucky and its citizens. I am grateful for your steadfast dedication to bettering the lives of those in Western Kentucky.”

U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell echoed Representative Comer’s thoughts,

“It has come to my attention-that the students and staff of the Earle C. Clements Job Corps Center in Morganfield were very instrumental in helping with sand bagging operations during the recent Ohio River flooding. Your compassionate spirit is to be commended! I know your community appreciates each and every one of you. This selflessness is what all Americans should strive to embrace in their hearts. Congratulations and thank you for your dedication to your community, our state and our nation.”

Old Shawneetown, Illinois Village Clerk Mel Rosser added,

“The students did an amazing job. We could not have asked for anything better. They were amazing. This could not have been done without Job Corps.”

Earle C. Clements staff and students put in many hours in both Kentucky and Illinois, working to protect lives and property.

“They did a great job and have made a huge positive difference in a community that has been faced with record flood waters in the Ohio River,” said Center Director Jeff Barton.  “A total of 114 students and 16 staff worked more than a thousand hours supporting local efforts to protect areas from major flooding.”