Education, Training and Employment

All participants are assessed for employability and assisted in determining their educational and vocational needs, based on their employment experience and desired career goals. These assessments are done as part of the Featherfist Employment and Vocational Services (FEVS) program. FEVS conducts the initial testing and assessment and prepares a plan to reach an employment goal. If appropriate, the participant is referred directly to employers for interviews.

When necessary, participants are assisted with resume preparation and job interviewing skills. If assessment determines that the participant is not ready for immediate employment, they are referred to the Featherfist Employment and Technology (FEAT) program for further training in basic adult education and basic computer skills. This is a 12-week, comprehensive program familiarizing participants with computers, how to access the internet, how to set up an e-mail address, how to perform basic word processing and spreadsheet functions. Generally after completing this program, participants qualify for entry-level clerical jobs. Occasionally, participants are referred to other vocational or job-training programs.

Life Skills Development

In addition to the essential needs of employment and income, it is also necessary to be able to function successfully in mainstream society once employment and income are obtained. Featherfist offers an array of services to assist in 'life skills development':

• Accessing financial benefits and affordable housing

  All participants are educated and counseled regarding necessary steps to receive income supports for basic needs and to successfully search the housing market for decent and affordable housing. Demonstrated competencies in these capabilities is a criteria for successful completion of the ISP. All prticipants are evaluated using HelpEngine, which determines eligibilty for TANF and food stamps and SSI/SSDI Outreach Access and Recovery (SOAR),which determines eligibility for social security and social disability benefits.

• Household management

  Classes are provided in household and personal budget management, basic home maintenance, nutrition, locating furniture, understanding a lease, landlord and neighbor relationships, among others.

• Negotiating neighborhood services and resources

  Classes and counseling are provided for locating schools, libraries, child care, local police, fire, hospitals and health services, social and recreational services, transportation, retail stores, churches, and other important resources.

For Futher Assistance…

• Contact Us
• Submit your information via our contact form
• Call us at: 1-773-721-7088