Young people ages 16 – 21 who hail from Sussex or northern Warren counties are encouraged to check out the Youth Connections training and education program which was recently launched at Project Self-Sufficiency. The free service is designed for youth who are no longer enrolled in school, or those who have graduated from high school but who may be struggling with literacy. Youth Connections helps guide participants through GED testing, job training, and placement at a work site, in college or the military.
The program helps to fill a gap for those who have dropped out of high school, or high school graduates who may not have achieved a sufficient level of literacy, and who are consequently struggling in the current job market, noted Project Self-Sufficiency’s Executive Director, Deborah Berry-Toon. “Youth Connections program utilizes all of the tools we currently have in place at Project Self-Sufficiency, and targets them to high school drop-outs, learning disabled students, those who are recovering from substance abuse, young people who are currently living below the poverty line, or those who are struggling in other areas. From intake to job placement, this program gives these young participants the keys to a new and productive future.”
Once a participant is accepted into the program, they can expect to undergo a battery of assessment testing followed by help with attaining their GED, life skills training, pre-employment training, and other remedial education efforts. Childcare, lunch and limited transportation assistance is available to all participants. Upon completion of their education, participants will be placed in internships, followed by placement in paid employment, college or the military. Follow up support will be provided by Project Self-Sufficiency staff to ensure that the newly-minted workers are faring well in their positions.
Local educators are enthusiastic about the new program. “Project Self-Sufficiency has been a trusted partner of the Newton Public Schools for many years,” noted Dr. Ken Greene, Superintendent of the Newton Public School District. “We support their continued work to help those in need with new efforts such as this education and job-training program for disadvantaged youth.”
Eligibility guidelines for the Youth Connections program are strict. Participants must be local residents between the ages of 16 – 21, who fall below the federal poverty guidelines. Male participants are required to register with the Selective Service System in order to qualify.
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.
For assistance in applying for the Youth Connections program, or to find out more about the other programs and services available at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.
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