Jose 'JJ' Balderas
The Center of Hope in Weatherford will continue its 58th Jobs for Life cohort June 8 to July 29. The eight-week program is designed to help unemployed and underemployed individuals, as well as recent high school graduates, develop the skills, confidence and support to enter or reenter the workforce.
Career Development Coordinator at the Center of Hope Erin McEndree said the free program focuses on resume development, interviewing, communication and workplace readiness that will help an individual stand out to employers while pursuing meaningful employment opportunities.
“In addition to employment skills, participants discover how to match their interests, strengths and abilities with a career path that can provide long-term stability and growth,” she said.
A key component of the program is mentorship.
McEndree said many participants enter the program facing discouragement, lack of confidence or difficult life experiences.
“Mentors walk alongside participants throughout the program, offering guidance, listening, encouragement and consistent support,” she said.
“These relationships help participants build confidence, recognize their value and stay motivated as they work toward employment and personal goals. For many individuals, having someone believe in them and invest in their success can be life-changing,” McEndree said.
In addition to mentors, McEndree said employers from the surrounding communities visit the class several times throughout the program’s duration and assist in mock interviews, providing valuable feedback and practical advice.
“Their involvement gives participants the opportunity to practice their skills in a supportive environment while also building connections with local employers,” she said.
The program dates back as far as 2009 when it consisted of only one participant and one volunteer to help lead the class. Since then, the program has steadily grown.
“There are so many success stories. For instance, six of the seven participants in the 57th class had interviews or got a job before class was even over,” McEndree said.
McEndree also noted that other graduates have received employment opportunities to avoid eviction, return to school and advance their careers to improve their financial stability.
The program will meet from 1 to 3 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday at the Center of Hope’s Weatherford location at 1318 Clear Lake Road.
McEndree said the organization is actively seeking volunteers to teach an evening class at the Center of Hope location in Springtown.
“Our main mission is to help those in financial poverty — we want to be able to walk with them in that process,” she said.
To volunteer, register or learn more about the upcoming Jobs for Life class, email [email protected].
