“Alone we do so little. Together we can do so much.”
~ Helen Keller
With a shared mission of helping those in need, SVdP’s Changing Lives Forever (CLF) Graduate Program and the John Boner Neighborhood Centers are ideal partners to help neighbors strengthen job readiness and financial stability.
The CLF Graduate Program—which is geared toward those who have completed the 18-week CLF program—provides continuing support and mentorship as CLF grads work to develop leadership skills, stability and self-sufficiency in all areas of their lives. One of the ways it does that is through partnerships like that with the Boner Centers.
Established in 1977, the Boner Centers helps neighbors improve the quality of life on the Near Eastside by providing tools for change and growth, including:
- Financial counseling and resources
- Energy assistance
- Housing and rent assistance
- Career workforce development
- Youth programs
- Health and wellness programs
Joint Mission: Job and Financial Training
Beginning this year, the Boner Centers have provided career coaches for CLF graduates. They help assess job readiness and identify any gaps. Additionally, financial coaches from the Boner Centers have offered financial counseling and resources.
With the success of this part of the program, several CLF grads participated in Boner’s six-week job training program. Karen Sloan, Director of Workforce Development and Financial Stability, says the CLF graduates earned both an Administrative and Customer Service Professional certification and a CompTIA technology certification.
“The program was well received,” Sloan says. “Many of the CLF grads have kept in touch and are open to additional training.”
Sloan says three of the CLF grads who participated in the training were hired at the Boner Centers and a fourth was hired by Citizens Energy. Additionally, SVdP hired one of the graduates as the new CLF Facilitator Coordinator.
“Through this partnership, our participants were able to receive a $400 stipend, gain new skills, build relationships, and feel empowered,” says CLF Director Andrea Leadford. “They are now ready to gain a career not just employment! That’s a huge win for all of us.”
