Program offers women employment training

NEWTON — The most recent graduating class from Project Self-Sufficiency’s employment skills training program “Higher Opportunities for Women” have gained more than just marketable office skills.

The group has gained confidence, a sense of professionalism and the support of a peer group as they continue on the road to self-sufficiency.

The sixteen-week “HOW” program combines intensive computer skills training with classroom instruction and off-site internships to prepare women who have been out of the work force or underemployed to seek entry-level office administrative positions.

Computer training and classroom instruction takes place at the agency’s campus which is located at 127 Mill St. in Newton.

“Project Self-Sufficiency’s HOW program is a pre-employment training program designed to help women who have been out of the workforce for a long period of time or those who may be entering the workforce for the first time,” said Cora Chandler, Coordinator of the agency’s Higher Opportunities for Women program. “In addition to computer training, the curriculum gives women the professionalism and confidence to contribute to the workforce in a meaningful way.”

The free program is offered three times a year, and involves computer training, along with classes in life skills and workplace etiquette. Eligibility is based on a variety of factors, such as experience, education, income-level, family situation and other issues. The program culminates with an externship at a local workplace.

Participants graduate with the skills they need to venture into the job market as an administrative assistant.

Graduates from the agency’s most recent “Higher Opportunities for Women” program included Stephanie Breur, Elizabeth Connolly, Barbara Flowers, Gilda Henderson, Jennifer Morrow, Kacey O'Dell, Linda Osmani, Tara Pierce, Catherine Sigelakis, Joan Towle and Jane Wells.

Program participant Linda Osmani worked at the Sussex County Surrogate’s office during her externship, under the tutelage of Special Probate Clerk Laura Camp and Sussex County Surrogate Gary Chiusano, both of whom attended the recent HOW graduation ceremony along with representatives from other local employers involved in the program.

Gary Chiusano voiced his enthusiastic support of the training program, as well as the other initiatives offered by Project Self-Sufficiency.

“I have been involved with Project Self-Sufficiency for many years, beginning with my years as a Sussex County Freeholder. I can empathize with women who find themselves in a situation where they need some support,” he said.

The Surrogate’s office has employed four HOW program participants during Chiusano’s tenure, and even hired one following her stint as an extern.

Special Probate Clerk Laura Camp said that an employee at the Surrogate’s office needs more than just office skills in order to succeed.

“We probate wills and we deal with a lot of people who are grieving and upset. It takes a natural skill to handle the telephone. We keep records from the early 1800’s so filing is also important. This program is wonderful and it’s very rewarding for us,” she said.

After several years as an administrative assistant, HOW graduate Linda Osmani had stepped out of the workforce in order to raise her children.

“I realized that I needed to upgrade my skills if I was going to find a job,” she said. “I would definitely recommend this program. I have a lot more confidence and it gave me the skills I needed to find a better job. This economic situation can make you start to feel down about yourself. Through this program, we covered a lot of issues, and you learn that you are not alone. All of us are friends. We are a family.”

The next session of Project Self-Sufficiency’s “Higher Opportunities for Women” program launches on Feb. 3.

To enroll, or to find out more information about the program, call Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-940-3500.