GEAR Launches Work Skills Program to Promote Job Readiness

GEAR member Kaleka Brewster shines with pride as she celebrates the very first graduating class of GEAR's Life and Work Skills Training Program. This georgeous, sunny Thursday, June 3, 2010, was marked with an official ceremony and celebration as students were in attendance to receive their Certificates of Achievement.

“Actually seeing everyone here who was instrumental in supporting our continuing endeavor in improving the quality of life for our community really gives me hope,” expressed Ms. Brewster. We congratulate the following first graduates: Kevin Copeland, Marsha Jackson, Donna Stamper, Toni Robinson, Dorian Hodges, Ladora Martinez, Felicia Haynes, Patricia Cosby, Leslie Norton, Martha Erambert, Robert Collum and Christopher Johnson.

The life and work skills program involves an innovative and practical job readiness course that addresses an urgent need in our community.  Participants with obstacles such as criminal history, lack of high school diploma, and family challenges complete eight weeks of life skills enrichment curriculum.  The program offers practical knowledge an a wide variety of  topics designed to build skills and credentials that prepare people for the workplace. Participants gain skills needed to train hard-to-reach adults and youth in critical life skills, covering topics of attitude, responsibility, communication, problem solving, workforce preparation, anger management, conflict resolution, critical thinking, self-esteem, dealing with stress and teamwork.

The program curriculum is based on a model called “Tackling the Tough Skills,” developed by the University of Missouri Extension Service. Four GEAR members have received certification as trainers of the model: Kaleka Brewster, Alecia Cammon, Marcus Watley, and Marsha Jackson.

Honorary graduates for active contributions included Life Skills Trainer and Media Manager, Marcus Watley, and Alecia Cammon, Life Skills Trainer and Program Coordinator.

Kaleka Brewster recognizes that this is an excellent beginning for the graduates and will continue to meet with them to monitor progress and offer resource referrals for jobs, housing and other necessary supportive services. Community members wanting more information may contact Alecia Cammon at the GEAR office by calling 706.235.5134. You may also visit the GEAR office located at One South Broad Street in downtown Rome.