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The six-week program was made possible through a collaboration among Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan, the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center and Bergen County One-Stop Career Center, where the classes were held.
It became critical, authorities said, amid a rise in homelessness, a reduction in voucher availability and a 90-day licensing period that made it difficult for some people to come up with viable housing arrangements.
On top of that, unemployment recipients who couldn’t collect enough to afford or maintain an apartment weren’t eligible for welfare.
As a result, county officials said, they began “focusing on rapidly re-employing folks quickly.”
“I applaud the joint-efforts of all the organizations involved and I am proud of all six graduates who are the embodiment of resiliency,” Donovan said. “I am confident that they and future graduates of this program will find success.”
One-Stop staffers already have begun sharing the graduates’ resumes with potential employers.
An on the job training contract will be provided to the employer providing these graduates an opportunity to work in their business.
The program has benefitted from several generous sponsors – including the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, the Hackensack Upper Main Alliance (which provided lunch for students), Hope for Ex-Offenders (which donated clothing) and Parisian Beauty School (which did makeovers).
WHAT: Graduation Ceremony
WHEN: Friday, May 10 (3:30 – 5:30 p.m.)
WHERE: Bergen County Technical High School / 504 Rt 46 West / Teterboro
The selection process for the next class is already under way and will officially begin in June.
According to Teach4Life: “We’re equipped and ready to motivate, develop and empower… Our training programs utilize 21st Century tools and resources, but not to replace the human element needed for success and personal growth. We develop professionals with excellence, and match them with the best fit of employers via temporary or direct hire.”
Career consultants also counsel employed workers “looking to enhance and grow” within a new or current career. Teach4Life also helps corporations maintain and develop loyal employees.
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