Ready for Work Program 
 
This program was developed in order to meet the needs of women in our programs who are faced with barriers to gainful employment. These barriers differ from woman to woman and include but are not limited to the following:
 
·       Lack of high school diploma or GED
·       Lack of computer knowledge
·       Basic literacy and academic challenges
·       No prior work history or a history of working low paying jobs
·       Life skill challenges
·       Lack of professional skills
 
We provided an open application process to all of our residents. From the 11 applications we received, we chose 5 women who best fit the criteria and had the greatest need and determination.
 
The Ready for Work Program began on September 8, 2008. We are currently providing 10 hours per week of paid training for each participant. The training areas include our Front Desk, Sally Catlin Resource Center and Food Pantry. We have also provided unpaid training hours in the form of meetings, discussion and goal planning.