The Front S.T.E.P.S program provides individuals the support to obtain and maintain employment within the trades. Partnerships are created with companies within Lancaster County to keep individuals aware of current openings, and the Workforce Development Coordinator will assist with the application process and advocate on behalf of the applicant. There is also a focus on providing career coaching and goal planning to give program participants the space to plan for their future.
Through our work in Navigation, we have seen the importance in providing person-centered support to individuals who may be facing barriers to employment. This is done through resource referral and prioritizing current needs. Customers have all different levels of varying support needs- some may need more intensive support while others may just need some initial guidance. We know that this all depends on where someone is at in their current life experiences so we will meet you where you are at and walk alongside you as you navigate towards your goals.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment, and this is what we have seen through our work:
- Transportation: Difficulty obtaining reliable transportation; hesitation to utilize public transportation due to the pandemic; high rates for driving services; employers with good-paying jobs that may not be on a bus route
- Childcare: Navigating trying to find reliable, safe, and high-quality childcare; planning ahead for what to do if a school shuts down
- Loss of employment: Because of the pandemic, many people have been unable to maintain their jobs, and in the beginning many trades companies had projects on hold or were not hiring
- No access to work uniforms/equipment: A pair of workboots or utility pants could be the difference between getting the job or not. We support in trying to find resources in obtaining the needed uniform or equipment to start a reliable job
We are equipped to help support people in addressing these barriers so that they can find a job that matches their needs and goals.
If you or someone you know is interested in getting additional support in your educational and/or career journey, please reach out!
The only eligibility requirement for this program is that you are looking for employment or are recently employed in the trades. For more information, email jparry@caplanc.org. You can also call at 717.333.1918 and ask for Jostalynn Parry-Redd.
Click here to download the flyer (.pdf)