CARES Career Connection mentors people through the process of becoming employed. It assists program participants in locating and applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, and securing and maintaining their employment. Since many participants have multiple and serious barriers to employment, CARES Career Connection also has active linkages with legal, educational, and social service partners who can help in overcoming obstacles and clearing the path to job readiness. Now operating fully as a program of GEDCO, this initiative originated as a joint effort between CARES and the Caroline Center.
A day in the life of CARES Career Connection
On a Tuesday morning, one man prepared for a job interview with his mentor, practicing the answering and asking of questions. A student volunteer helped another participant use a computer to search online for jobs, and a third worked with a volunteer to write her resume. Then good news rang: A participant who was working at a temporary position called with the exciting report that he had been hired as a permanent worker because he had on hand the resume that CARES Career Connection had prepared with him.
Later that day, five participants attended a luncheon workshop on job interview skills, led by our Employment Services Coordinator. The workshop included role playing and other interactive exercises. Participants got direct feedback on etiquette in job interviews and the chance to hone their skills.
Special thanks to Second Presbyterian Church for their kind donation to seed fund this program.
Please see below a graph showing the increase in jobs we've secured over the years at CARES Career Connection .
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