Enrollment for the next session of the New Jersey Youth Corps program at Project Self-Sufficiency is underway. It is open to Sussex and Warren county residents between 16 and 25 years old without a high school diploma.

            The 16-week program launches in July and helps participants boost their literacy skills, prepare for the high school equivalency exam, obtain on-the-job work experience, and transition into a career, college or the military.  Interested participants are invited to attend a virtual Open House hosted by Project Self-Sufficiency to learn more about the New Jersey Youth Corps and to complete an application.  Virtual Open Houses will be held at on Mondays, June 13 and 20, at 11 a.m. and Thursdays, June 9, 16, and 30 at 5 p.m. Call 973-940-3500 for log-in details.

            Project Self-Sufficiency is offering a $100 gift card to those who refer a young adult to the New Jersey Youth Corps training and education program.  To receive the gift card, referred individuals must enroll in the program, complete the two-week orientation, and be inducted into the program.

            The program includes assessments, testing, employability skills training, life skills workshops, academic instruction, community service projects, field trips, and counseling services.  Program participants will prepare for the high school equivalency examination and have the opportunity to receive a weekly stipend based on attendance for the full week.  Free transportation is provided. 

            The New Jersey Youth Corps, which is funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development, is also in operation at sites around the state, including Camden, Elizabeth, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Newark, Paterson, Phillipsburg, Pleasantville, Trenton, and Vineland.  Those who are interested in learning more about the New Jersey Youth Corps at Project Self-Sufficiency are encouraged to call 973-940-3500. 

Women and Job Skill Enhancement

Project Self-Sufficiency is offering a free 8-week training program for women seeking to enhance their job skills on Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 12 through Sept. 1 running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

            The program includes lessons in computer skills, job search methods, and interview techniques, along with on-the-job training at a community work site. All classes will take place at the agency’s campus at 127 Mill Street, Newton. Work sites will be located throughout the county and hours will be dependent upon the employer’s needs.

            The comprehensive Summer Office Skills program prepares participants to seek entry-level office administrative positions.  In addition to 40 hours of computer skills training, participants will receive 20 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of work experience at a community employment site. The time in the classroom is devoted to careering instruction, life skills training and interviewing strategies.  Over the years, Project Self Sufficiency has partnered with a variety of local businesses, non-profit organizations and government entities to provide participants with externship opportunities.  Participants gain real-life work experience while honing the computer skills they have received as part of the agency’s training programs. 

            To participate in the summer office skills program, contact www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500. There is an application process.