[What?]

Our career readiness program provides work-readiness support and workforce development, beginning with crucial pre-training components, including life skills counseling and assessments of vocational interests and aptitudes.  After that, Rising Star moves to job skills, career placement, and job retention.

[How?]

• Aptitude and career testing for each participant
• Individualized career track planning and step ladder
• 8-week module based career readiness certificate program
• Career outings
• Finishing Academy & paid internship program
• Job retention services
• Tutoring/computer training in our technology center
• An incentive club

Rising Star also offers specialized Life Skills Programs: a weekly literacy Book Club; and parenting education seminars, and a participant Leadership Council.

[2008 Accomplishments]

• 31 moms enrolled in or graduated from school, a GED program, or a vocational training program.
• 34 youth became employed, 82.4% at higher than minimum wage.
• 77% of clients retained employment.
• 21 clients served 3-month terms on the New Moms “Leadership Council”.
• 100% of “Leadership Council” members volunteered as mentors for their peers and/or participated in other community service activities.