Networks Job Resource Center Opens at LCSC

June 17th marked the official opening of the Networks Job Resource Center, a partnership between Lakewood Community Services Center (LCSC) and Towards Employment, Inc. With support from Deaconess Foundation, the Bruening Foundation and Community Development Block Grant funds from the City of Lakewood, the Resource Center provides on-site instruction and hands-on workshops focused on job readiness for LCSC clients who are seeking employment.

“Insufficient income from employment is a significant factor indicated by clients coming to LCSC for emergency food each month,” according to LCSC Executive Director Trish Rooney. “The YTD July 2014 data indicate that 15% of the total number of unduplicated clients who have presented for food during 2014 state that a recent job loss or insufficient income from either full-time or part-time employment is their primary reason to seek assistance.” LCSC’s 2012 strategic plan determined that moving clients toward self-sufficiency was the organization’s primary focus. This partnership with Towards Employment, Inc. to provide employment services on-site at LCSC is a major step toward realizing this important objective for clients and for the community.

Services at the Networks Job Resource Center, run by a dedicated Towards Employment, Inc. Training Specialist, include a computer lab for job search and skill enhancement; weekly job readiness workshops that cover understanding the application process, creating a strong cover letter and resume and sharpening interviewing skills; and support and guidance in overcoming barriers to employment and understanding employer expectations. The Job Club provides support and job lead sharing in a group environment.

To date, 81 LCSC clients have inquired about the Resource Center and have been referred for assessment. In just six weeks, 41 individuals have begun working at the Networks Job Resource Center and five have been offered and have accepted positions! “Our clients are so enthusiastic about this new opportunity,” says Rooney. “They are comfortable here at the Center, don’t have to travel to benefit from this important service and are committed to improving their financial profile--all good news for themselves, their families and for Lakewood.”

The Networks Job Resource Center at LCSC is open Tuesday through Thursday every week, with orientation on Monday afternoon. For more information, contact LCSC at 216.226.6466.

Towards Employment, Inc. is a 38-year-old nonprofit agency with a mission of empowering individuals to achieve and maintain self sufficiency through employment. Jill Rizika, Toward Employment’s Executive Director, was recently honored by the White House as part of the Champions of Change program.  According to a White House spokesperson, Champions of Change was created to recognize those who do extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their community.