Check Out the Computer Classes offered at Project Self-Sufficiency during February!

Project Self-Sufficiency will be offering a variety of computer classes in February, including a basic Introduction to Personal Computers, an advanced class in Microsoft Excel, an introductory course in Microsoft Word, as well as a course in Quickbooks.   The agency also offers a course designed specifically for men.  All classes will take place in the agency’s Career Center, which is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton.   The fee for each class is $10, with the exception of the free “Careering 101” and “Careering 102” courses.   Computer class students must be registered Family Success Center or Project Self-Sufficiency participants; members of the public are welcome to use the agency’s computer labs for job searches, and receive assistance with career and financial management skills, through the agency’s Universal Access program.

A basic Introduction to Personal Computers will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 7^th – 23rd, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.  This introductory course is designed for first-time computer users or people with limited computer experience.  Students will learn computer basics, including the different components of the computer and the performance of simple procedures.  Fundamental keyboarding skills and a brief overview of popular software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook and Access will also be discussed.  

An introductory course in Microsoft Word will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, February 6^th – 27th, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 7^th – 23rd, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  Students will learn word-processing techniques, including the creation of professional-looking letters, faxes, newsletters and other documents, as well as the use of mail merge features used to print address labels and address letters to multiple recipients.  Participation in the introductory level Microsoft Word course is required prior to registration in the advanced class.

Those interested in learning more about Microsoft Excel are encouraged to attend an advanced class on Mondays and Wednesdays, February 6^th – 27th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., or on Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 7^th – 23rd, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.  Instruction will center on the creation of spreadsheets, databases and workbooks for use in tracking inventory, sorting data and creating mailing lists.  Students will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide rows and columns using formulas and become adept at storing, managing and interpreting data.  Students must complete the introductory level Microsoft Excel class before registration in the advanced course.

A course in Quickbooks Accounting Software will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, February 6^th – March 12th, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  Students will learn how to organize personal or business finances, track orders and payments, generate invoices, monitor and manage expenses and produce sophisticated reports and sales forecasts. 

Microsoft Employment Lab for Men, a special class which introduces basic keyboarding skills and touches on Microsoft applications, will be held on Wednesdays, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m., February 1^st – 29th.  The course will also explore the development of resumes and cover letters.

Members of the public are invited to use the state-of-the-art computer lab at Project Self-Sufficiency to take advantage of the agency’s Work Connections “Universal Access” program.  These sessions offer full use of the computer lab to conduct job searches, refine networking techniques, create cover letters and resumes, update interview skills, and address salary negotiations.  Limited staff assistance is available.  An information session about the Work Connections Universal Access program will be held on Wednesday, February 1st, at 10:00 a.m.

The agency will also offer “Careering 101” to instruct participants on job search and networking techniques, the preparation of cover letters and resumes, and basic skills for use in interviewing, salary negotiation and the acquisition of workplace etiquette.  The Careering 101 sessions are offered at convenient day and evening times.  Interested participants are encouraged to call 973-940-3500 for a schedule.

Time management, goal-setting, interacting with co-workers, and other workplace techniques are covered in “Careering 102”.  Careering 102 is offered every Tuesday, from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. and from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.   The Careering 102 class is open to the public.

“Financial Management” seminars are held every Thursday, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.  Participants will learn how to manage a budget, and explore the use of different types of banking accounts, loans, college saving plans, and retirement plans.   The Financial Management class is open to the public.

Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Center also offers assistance with obtaining a GED, career counseling and assessment, Job Start and Job Search services.   Frequent career fairs give area residents the opportunity to meet local employers, and learn about additional employment and training opportunities.

With the exception of the Careering 101, Careering 102, and the Financial Management courses, the fee for each class is $10.  All computer classes at the agency are open to registered Family Success Center and Project Self-Sufficiency participants; members of the public are welcome to participate in all Universal Access programs.  To inquire about eligibility, or to find out more about the computer courses offered at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.

Health Care Professionals Inspire Others

A panel of health care professionals recently shared their insights and experiences with teens and adults at Project Self-Sufficiency’s “Becoming You:  Health Care Careers” seminar.  Surgeon Dr. Michelle O’Shea was joined by Occupational Therapist Michelle Mahoney, Surgical Technician Christine Slater, and Registered Nurse Patty Kemper for an informative discussion which encompassed descriptions of their background, typical day and the challenges each have faced during their careers.

The “Becoming You:  Career Explorations” series consists of monthly forums highlighting career opportunities in a variety of disciplines.  Successful professionals from the area have been invited to speak about their education, background, and current job description, as well as offer answers to questions posed by the audience.   Upcoming subjects will include Non-Traditional Careers, Culinary Careers and Helping Professions.

Project Self-Sufficiency is a private non-profit community-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of low-income families residing in northwestern New Jersey.  The agency’s mission is to provide a broad spectrum of holistic, respectful, and comprehensive services enabling low-income single parents, teen parents, two-parent families, and displaced homemakers to improve their lives and the lives of their children through the achievement of personal and economic self-sufficiency and family stability.  Since 1986 Project Self-Sufficiency has served more than 19,500 families, including over 30,000 children. 

The “Becoming You” events are free and open to the public, but registration is required.  For more information about upcoming “Becoming You” seminars, for information about the programs and services available at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.

Project Self-Sufficiency Seeks Donations for Prom Shop

Love is in the air during the month of February, when all thoughts for teenage girls turn to their upcoming prom.  However, given the current economic climate, not every family will be able to afford fancy dresses, shoes and accessories for their teens.  For those who are unable to afford a suitable dress for the occasion, Project Self-Sufficiency will be hosting their annual “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop during the months of March and April.  The agency is currently seeking donations of new and gently-used formal wear, including prom dresses, bridesmaids’ dresses, gowns for mothers-of-the-bride, evening bags, jewelry, wraps and shawls, as well as shoes in good condition.  Dresses must be dry cleaned and on a hanger. 

“The prom is a once in a lifetime event for many girls, and we are hopeful that local residents who may have extra prom dresses in their closets will seize this opportunity to donate them to the ‘Sister-to-Sister’ Prom Shop,” commented Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.   “The Prom Shop has been a huge success year after year because of the support we receive from the community.  We are confident that the public will step up once again to help these girls enjoy a memorable evening.”

Donations will be accepted Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Those who are unable to make a donation during these hours are encouraged to call the office to make special arrangements.   Donations are requested by March 1^st, so that the items can be properly arranged for display.  However, formal wear will gladly be accepted through the duration of the Prom Shop, if necessary. 

Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton.  For information about the Sister-to-Sister Prom Shop, or to find out more about any of the programs at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.

Free Parenting Classes for Families with Children from 0 - 10

Project Self-Sufficiency will offer free parenting classes for families with children from birth through the age of ten on Tuesdays, February 7th - March 13th, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  Learn about the different stages of emotional and physical development during childhood, as well as techniques for positive discipline and improved communication.  Snacks and childcare provided.  Free and open to the public; registration required. Call 973-940-3500 to register.

Free Hats, Mittens for Children at Project Self-Sufficiency

Project Self-Sufficiency announces that a limited quantity of children’s hats, mittens and scarves are available to income-eligible families in need.  Interested families are invited to call Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-940-3500 to schedule a time to pick up the winter accessories.   Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton. 

Project Self-Sufficiency is a private non-profit community-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of low-income families residing in northwestern New Jersey.  The agency’s mission is to provide a broad spectrum of holistic, respectful, and comprehensive services enabling low-income single parents, teen parents, two-parent families, and displaced homemakers to improve their lives and the lives of their children while achieving personal and economic self-sufficiency and family stability.  Since 1986 Project Self-Sufficiency has served more than 19,000 families, including over 30,000 children.  

To find out more about any of the programs at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.

Area Designers Join Forces with Local Chefs to Raise Funds for Project Self-Sufficiency

“A Taste of Talent: Dining by Design” will be held at Perona Farms on behalf of Project Self-Sufficiency on Monday, April 16^th, beginning at 6:30 p.m.  Patrons will be able to sample hors d’oeuvres, entrees and desserts from 30 area restaurants while bidding on creations by local interior design firms.  Now in its 16^th year, the habitually sold-out event will benefit Project Self-Sufficiency, a local non-profit agency specializing in services for low-income families in Sussex, Morris and Warren counties.

As in previous years, stations from 30 of the area’s finest restaurants will be placed throughout Perona Farms, allowing patrons to meet and mingle with the chefs while sampling some of their most renowned dishes.  Guests are invited to stroll through the cavernous kitchen at Perona Farms and witness a cooking demonstration by owner Kirk Avondoglio, who is serving as the Culinary Chairperson of this year’s event.   The foyer at Perona Farms will be transformed into a showcase featuring the wares of local designers.  Patrons will be encouraged to bid on the displays, with the highest bidder taking home the designer’s entire creation.  Those who pledge their support at the Sponsorship Level will have the opportunity to win a dinner for eight, catered in their own home by Kirk Avondoglio, with staging for the evening provided by Alicia Shearer and Patti Bruterri, co-chairs of the designing portion of A Taste of Talent.

In years past, participating restaurants have included The Walpack Inn, Perona Farms, Andre’s Restaurant & Wine Boutique, The Boat House, Bobolink Dairy, Café Pierrot, The Chatterbox, Cheddar Alley, The Chocolate Goat Gift Shoppe, Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream, The Dining Room, Everything Homemade, George’s Wine & Gourmet Gallery, Glenmere Mansion, The Homestead Rest, Krave Café & Caterers, The Montville Inn, The Muir House, Pies On Wheels, The Prickly Pear Restaurant, Restaurant Latour, Restaurant Serenade, Ristorante Il Porto, Salt A Gastro Pub, Sushi Ya, Tanti Baci Caffé, Truffles, Wok N’ Sushi, and others.

“A Taste of Talent is our signature fundraising event and the cornerstone to our annual campaign,” noted Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.  “We are delighted by the support we continue to receive from the restaurateurs and designers in our area.   Project Self-Sufficiency is in need of the community’s support now more than ever.  Due to the current economic situation, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of low-income families requesting assistance.  ‘A Taste of Talent: Dining by Design’ provides a wonderful opportunity for people to reach out and help their neighbors at this difficult time.”

As usual, music will be an integral part of A Taste of Talent, with ensembles and soloists set up in just about every room at Perona Farms.  The “Meant to be Jazz” trio will perform throughout the evening, along with several other groups.  Wine tasting will be conducted by Gallo.

Project Self-Sufficiency is a private non-profit community-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of low-income families residing in northwestern New Jersey.  The agency’s mission is to provide a broad spectrum of holistic, respectful, and comprehensive services enabling low-income single parents, teen parents, two-parent families, and displaced homemakers to improve their lives and the lives of their children while achieving personal and economic self-sufficiency and family stability.  Since 1986 Project Self-Sufficiency has served more than 19,000 families, including over 30,000 children.

Sponsorships for “A Taste of Talent: Dining by Design” range from $500 - $25,000, and a limited number of individual tickets are available at a cost of $200.  Perona Farms is located at 350 Andover-Sparta Road in Andover.  To make a contribution to Project Self-Sufficiency, to obtain tickets to “A Taste of Talent: Dining by Design,” or to find out more information about the programs and services available at the agency, call 973-940-3500.

Enroll in New Jersey Family Care at Project Self-Sufficiency

Project Self-Sufficiency offers open enrollment appointments for New Jersey Family Care, the health insurance plan offered by the state of New Jersey to eligible children and low-income parents, every Wednesday morning, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., and every Thursday evening, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. 

New Jersey Family Care is a comprehensive health insurance program that provides a wide range of services, including visits to a physician, eye glasses, hospitalization, lab work, x-rays, prescriptions, regular checkups, mental health, and dental coverage.  Medical services are available at Health Maintenance Organizations in each county.  Depending on family income, there may be restrictions on certain services.  Coverage in the health care plan is available for children 18 years of age and younger, as well as parents who meet income eligibility requirements.  Eligibility is based on family size, monthly income and other factors. 

Many individuals who were previously enrolled in the NJ Family Care/Medicaid program were recently switched to a Managed Care plan.  Care for these individuals is now coordinated under one of 4 HMO’s.  There are no longer any medical exemptions of mandatory HMO enrollment in NJ Family Care.  Care for certain childless adults who are not enrolled in the state of New Jersey’s General Assistance Program has been terminated.   Interested applicants are encouraged to call Project Self-Sufficiency or visit the New Jersey Family Care website, www.njfamilycare.org, for more information.  Individual appointments at Project Self-Sufficiency are free and open to the public, but registration is required. 

Guidelines for residency status and income eligibility have recently been revised.  Parents and guardians who have not resided in the United States as Legal Permanent Residents for at least five years are no longer eligible for NJ FamilyCare.  However, any pregnant women, regardless of date of entry can apply and be determined eligible.  NJ FamilyCare is only accepting applications from parents and guardians with work income at or below 133% of the federal poverty level.  For example, parents and guardians in a family of four, making up to $2,444 per month, may be eligible.  However, some parents and guardians in a family making up to $2,444 may not be eligible because income such as unemployment, child support and government benefits are counted differently. 

Parents at higher income levels may have the option of purchasing health insurance for their children at reasonable rates through the New Jersey Family Care ADVANTAGE program.  Applicants will be eligible for New Jersey Family Care only if they have been uninsured for a period of three months or more, or if health coverage was lost due to layoffs or other factors.  Depending on income, other exceptions may apply for families privately paying for health insurance or for COBRA benefits.  For many families, New Jersey Family Care will be free.  Other families will pay a monthly premium based on their income and small co-payments for some services.

Immigrant parent/caretakers who are legal permanent residents of the United States must have had that status for at least five years in order to be eligible for NJ FamilyCare.  Children age 18 or younger in "Qualified" immigrant status are able to apply for NJ FamilyCare, regardless of the date that they entered the United States; they do not have to wait five years to be eligible.  "Qualified" status includes a lawful permanent resident, a refugee, an asylee, a Cuban-Haitian entrant, an undocumented resident whose deportation is being withheld by USCIS, an Amerasian immigrant, a child of an honorably discharged United States military veteran, a child of a member of the United States military, an immigrant paroled for over one year, or an applicant under the Violence Against Women Act.  Certain American Indians born in Canada are treated the same as a United States citizen for the purpose of Medicaid eligibility.

Applicants are required to bring proof of income, citizenship information, social security number, and information about existing health coverage to the enrollment appointment.  Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton.  To register, or to find out more about enrollment in the New Jersey Family Care program, call Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-940-3500.