Gifted Care Service Awarded Kansas Registered Apprenticeship Grant
Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) member Gifted Care Service has been awarded a Small Business Registered Apprenticeship Grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce and the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship, marking a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to workforce development.
Owner Kriscendra Baptiste shared that receiving the grant felt like an answered prayer and a confirmation of the vision she has carried for her business from the very beginning.
“This opportunity means so much to me, not just because of the funding, but because of what it represents,” she shared. “It represents growth, workforce development, purpose, and the opportunity to bring someone else up with me as we grow.”
The apprenticeship grant comes at a meaningful time for Gifted Care Service as the company continues expanding its impact and creating opportunities for its team. Through the program, the business will be able to further invest in employee development, training, and long-term career growth within the caregiving field.
Kriscendra also reflected on the role BEFH has played in helping prepare Gifted Care Service for opportunities like this through programs such as CommerceUplift, coaching, workshops, and access to capital.
She gave special thanks to Dr. Crystal Davis for the guidance, accountability, and mentorship that helped strengthen both her leadership and business strategy throughout her journey.
“This grant means so much to me because my heart has never been just to build a business,” Kriscendra shared. “My heart’s desire has always been to grow in a way that allows me to bring each employee up with me and bless them as this company is blessed.”
As part of the apprenticeship opportunity, team member Tanarika Picou will step into the company’s first apprenticeship role. Kriscendra recognized Tanarika for consistently serving clients, supporting operations, and showing up wherever needed within the business.
Gifted Care Service plans to continue using opportunities like this to strengthen both its team and the care it provides throughout the community.
“This is only the beginning,” Kriscendra said. “The first of many.”
