The College of Western Idaho (CWI) received a major boost Tuesday with a $75,000 grant from an unexpected supporter — the iconic rock band Metallica, reports idahonews.com. Through its foundation, All Within My Hands, Metallica has joined forces with CWI to support the college’s Fire Service Technology Program, providing funding for essential equipment, scholarships, and hands-on training.

At the Nampa Fire Service Training Academy, CWI students put their skills to the test, suiting up in firefighting gear to extinguish a simulated car fire. Adding a unique twist to the demonstration, a guitar was paired with a fire hose, symbolizing the one-of-a-kind partnership between CWI and the heavy metal band’s foundation.

“Scholarships are really an important way where our students have the ability to really afford the education and training that they're looking for. In this case, fire protection individuals who can pursue a career in fire departments around the valley is important, but also support from groups like today, Metallica, literally Metallica, the heavy metal band. Their Foundation, All Within My Hands is supporting individuals who want to pursue careers, in this case, in fire service,” said CWI President Gordon Jones.

The grant is part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative, a workforce education program launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges. To date, the initiative has invested more than $10.5 million in career and technical education programs nationwide.

Read more at idahonews.com.

Metallica's All Within My hands foundation is offering a chance to meet Jimmy Kimmel at a Jimmy Kimmel Live! taping in Los Angeles.

A message states: "The late-night host, who is also lending his talents to host All Within My Hands’ Helping Hands Concert & Auction next month, is providing an incredible VIP-access experience for two, all to benefit our foundation.

"With your donation, you will be entered for a chance to win priority tickets to a taping of Jimmy Kimmel Live! at the famous El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA. The winner and one guest will get the VIP treatment, including green room access, a behind-the-scenes tour of the set, a meet-and-greet with Jimmy, and a chance to sit at his desk on stage! And you won’t need to worry about travel or lodging; the prize includes round-trip travel and a two-night hotel stay in Los Angeles for two.

"The lucky winner will receive a five-piece luggage package by BÉIS, the ultimate travel gear and accessories for the modern traveler. The set features three award-winning pieces: The Carry-On Roller, The Medium Check-In Roller, and The Large Check-In Roller—all of which are crafted with a durable hard-shell exterior, smooth-rolling 360° wheels, and a cushioned silicone trolley handle. Also included are The Weekender, an easy-access tote with surprising capacity, and The Dopp Kit, a spill-proof bag that will keep all your toiletries organized.

"Donation options start as low as $10, plus a free entry method. All donations support AWMH’s mission to create sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services.

"Sweepstakes ends Friday, December 20, at 11:59 PM PT. Open to legal residents of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Mexico only. Must be 18 or older to win."

Donate here to enter.