From Unemployed Single Mom to Interior Design Entrepreneur

Brittney McClure is a single mom who is currently unemployed and pursuing a full-time interior design education at Randolph Technical Community College (RCC). She aspires to start an interior design business with a non-profit outlet, offering pro bono design services to single mothers.

With funds provided by the Golden LEAF Foundation grant, GuilfordWorks is helping Brittney pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations by enrolling her in a Craft Skills for Construction course taught through Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC). We’re also connecting her with community partners like the Small Business Center at GTCC, SCORE, Forge Greensboro, WithIt, and Kreber to help further her dream.

Connecting People to Sustainable Job Opportunities

GuilfordWorks aims to utilize the Golden LEAF Foundation grant to assist underemployed, unemployed, and marginalized individuals in Guilford County. Individuals must be 18 or older and have a high school diploma or GED to participate. The goal is to connect individuals with job opportunities in local industries by offering educational and practical experiences, specifically in the following sectors: Clean and Renewable Energy, Clean Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Craft Skills and Construction, Biotechnology, and Industrial Technology.

Elizabeth Sutorius Saunders is the Golden LEAF Program Coordinator for GuilfordWorks. She has a real passion for going above and beyond to help others. She and her team have excelled in recruiting efforts and achieving program goals. Thus far, they have enrolled 23 students, 18 of whom have completed at least one continuing education course.

The Golden LEAF Foundation grant program runs through June 2026. We are currently accepting applications for new courses starting in Fall 2025. There’s no cost for program participation. This grant covers all expenses, including tuition, books, and other supportive services.