"I worked 3 jobs, couldn't pay my bills, and was called a moocher until I found Stepping Forward Works".
Stepping Forward Works is a United Way of Franklin County initiative serving individuals and industry in
the community. This cost free service is offered to individuals who struggle in poverty or are on the brink of poverty because they lack skills, coaching, and training to improve their employment opportunities. The program also serves industries in the county who need dependable employees with employability skills who will stay on the job.
Candidates are first placed in support programs as needed to best prepare them for engagement in a training environment that mimics workplace conditions and expectations. Individuals are drug tested, partnered with a mentor, coached in soft skills, trained in problem solving, critical thinking and financial literacy, coached with resume' building and interview skills, and guided through appropriate communication skills with each action they take during their training day. Candidate trainers include certified instructors, HR directors, HR generalists, CEO's, nurse supervisors, business owners, finance specialists, and managers.
This helps to reinforce the daily message that everyone they meet is a potential employer.
Once individuals complete the program, they interview with partner employers who have agreed to hire program approved candidates for jobs ranging from warehouse and construction to forklift and nurse aide positions. Candidates are followed for one full year and counseled as needed to meet job demands or personal struggles.
A few program statistics:
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62 candidates have enrolled in our program
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11% are veterans
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56% have a criminal background
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100% of our candidates have identified a barrier or pattern of behavior that has negatively impacted their ability to stay employed
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14% moved from debt to having a savings account
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20% have moved into management and supervisory rolls
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75% of candidates have completed an industry recognized certification
- 83% of candidates have remained employed after 1 year
