Participants referred to Connections will progress through the 6 tiers, which will provide the necessary skills and support to lead them to self-sufficiency.  Throughout the tiers goal setting and assessments are kept on file.  Goals are set and assessments will be done as a self-evaluation tool as well as supervisor evaluation done by the Director of Connections and trained volunteers.  

 

Tier 1—Entry Level:                                

·        Instruction begins in basic sewing skill.

·        Participants are engaged in group activities which develop skills in: following directions, basic communication skills and reliable attendance practices.

·        Instruction is given in appropriate behavior and physical appearance for the workplace.

·        Instructions is given in basic nutrition and budgeting.

 

Tier 2—Office and Administration:             

·        Basic phone etiquette and reception skills are taught through the storefront and Catholic Charities of Livingston County’s central office.

·        Entry-level computer literacy instruction on Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and PowerPoint are taught through inventory and project tracking, letter transcription and production of program and sale flyers.

·        Basics of copying and mass mailing are taught through promotional mailings and agency mailings.

 

Tier 3—Retail Sales and Customer Service:

·        Instruction is given on inventory restocking of handmade items as well as those items from artists from throughout Livingston County whose items are sold in the Connections storefront.

·        Basics of retail sales including dealing with customers, answering questions and promoting sales are taught.

·        Customer service instruction and experience are given though the Connections store front. 

·        Participant made items are sold in the store front, as well as hand crafted items from artists throughout Livingston County

 

Tier 4—Computer Technology:                                    

·        Participants are trained in the basics of online sales through eBay.  Instruction is given in all aspects of online sales from donation intake, research, listing, customer service and shipping.

·        Training is given in basic web design and maintenance of the Connections webpage.  Participants perform updates to the website.

·        Participants oversee intake of donated computers and refurbish them with open source software.  Connections then donates them to families who otherwise would not have the means to have access to a computer.

 

Tier 5—Job Search and Placement:

·        Participants are counseled on appropriate employment options.

·        Instructions and guidance is given in job search through area agencies and resources including those in print and on the Internet.

·        Instruction is given in resume and cover letter writing, which leads to a workable resume.

·        Guidance and support is given in the completion of applications for employment.

·        Job interview etiquette and strategies are taught.  Participation in mock interviews allows participants to become more comfortable in an interview setting. 

    

Tier 6—-Gainfully Employed

·        Continued support is given though periodic career counseling and peer support groups after clients gain employment.  Counseling and support sessions are used to motivate participants to advance their careers and become positive role models to those who are in training through Connections.