“Women to Work”, a free four-week course offered by Gesher Human Services (formerly JVS + Kadima), one of the largest human service agencies in metro Detroit, will begin on July 14 with an in-person informational meeting at the organization’s headquarters (29699 Southfield Road, MI 48076). The program will be held during eight sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, starting on July 19. “Women to Work” is aimed at women who are ready to return to the workforce, some of whom may have had their employment put on hold earlier in the pandemic, and who may be concerned about the current economic climate and inflation.
Research by The Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Center for Microeconomic Data showed that people felt their households’ current financial situation had deteriorated noticeably in May; they also felt they would be worse off in a year from now.
“Any woman who has been out of the workforce for a while but is now concerned about her or her family’s finances, can gain invaluable employment-related support through “Women to Work”,” said Jason Charnas, director of Business and Career Services. “Modern tools in job searching, expert help in resume writing and networking and even stress management are all available to help metro Detroit women get the job they need and deserve, to help their families cope with current high inflation.”
This summer’s “Women to Work” will offer:
· in-depth vocational assessment;
· employment-related group counseling and emotional support;
· information and referrals to support services;
· help with networking, resume writing & interviewing;
· financial management advice; and
· stress management.
Once the course is complete, participants will continue to receive ongoing support including advice on career steps, other training opportunities, salary negotiations, and more. Since the “Women to Work” program began in the 1980s, it has changed thousands of metro Detroit women’s lives, giving them vital tools to land a job quickly. Even when the program has finished, Women to Work Coordinator Judy Richmond retains a connection with the women. Some participants meet regularly, creating their own informal support groups; others call Richmond for reassurance and advice on the next steps in their employment journeys, or even provides guidance on college.
“During the program, women forge a bond with each other and with me, and I’m frequently asked what happens when the eight sessions end,” explained Richmond. “I’m quick to reassure them that I’m not going anywhere and that they can meet me in person, on Zoom or by phone as needed. There is no time limit.”
For more information on “Women to Work” and to register for the program, contact Judy Richmond at 248.233.4232 or email her at jrichmond@jvshumanservices.org.
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