5 Quick Facts about Step Up DC
As you have probably read by now, the Step Up DC job placement program launched in September. Step Up DC connects women at Calvary to employers in DC, with the goal of helping them achieve independent living. The program is already seeing strong enrollment. Some candidates are already working but are striving to move forward in their careers or into better-paying positions. Others have been unemployed for years and are getting re-acquainted with the job application process (which may look completely different today compared to what they remember).
Here is a quick set of facts on this exciting new program:
- Step Up DC is open to women in the Calvary Transitional Housing Program, Pathways and Sister Circle. Women must have prior work experience and enter the program through a referral from their case manager. Step Up DC candidates are ready and eager to work!
- Current and past employees of Calvary’s STRIDE (Search Together to Resume Dignified Employment) program are also eligible to participate in Step Up DC. STRIDE currently employs one chef and two cleaning assistants.
- LEAP (Life Skills, Education and Arts Program) and Step Up DC go hand-in-hand – afternoon classes cover job preparedness topics like computer basics, professional presentation, stress management and effective communication.
- Volunteers with relevant experience can get involved with Step Up DC by leading workshops on employment-related topics, conducting mock interviews with candidates and reviewing resumes.
- Job Developer Robinson Cook oversees Step Up DC. He facilitates relationships between candidates and potential employers, coordinates with job mentors, assists with job placements and works directly with women at Calvary throughout the job search process. Robinson’s energy and commitment are great assets to the program.
Step Up DC represents a new frontier for Calvary Women’s Services. We are thrilled to be offering job placement services for women who are actively working toward independent living!