Job Training Week:
All individuals are required to attend a one week workshop totaling 27 hours. Participants must be 21 years of age. The week comprises of a series of workshops including communication skills, conflict resolution, reflective listening, dressing for success, interviewing skills and job retention. In addition, each participant receives a one-on-one skills assessment with a employment counselor.
Upon completion of the week-long class, employment counselors assist all graduates with potential employment. StepUp currently works with over 160 employers and matches applicants with the training, experience, and interpersonal criteria requested by an employer. Our staff also establishes working relationships with employers who are willing to hire individuals who may have a criminal background and/or previous substance abuse problems. Staff also schedules interviews for participants and helps facilitate the application process. Since 2005, StepUp has placed over 1500 people with 81% staying in their job for more than one year.
Follow-up and Retention:
Following placement, staff works with both participants and employers to increase retention.
Participants must meet these requirements:
1) Participants are required to sign a contract stating that they will stay in their job at least 6 months. StepUp currently has an 83% success rate.
2) Participants must attend one Job Friends meeting a month. Job Friends meet on Wednesday evenings at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Raleigh and the group focuses on job related issues.
3) Participants agree to call StepUp once a week for follow up.