SAPCC helps prepare teens For workforce

Julie Waite, Gateway program job coordinator appreciates the support of a worksite opportunity for teens which is a collaboration between Myrtle’s Closet (a thrift store) and a program of the Springfield Area Parent Child Center.

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SAPCC Collaboration Prepares Teens For Workforce

Submitted by Jill Patoine to
Twin State Valley Media Network

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 11:43 AM

A unique blend of worksites preparing teens for the workforce sets the foundation for success at Myrtle’s Closet — a thrift store.

As the economy has slowed, the sales at Myrtle’s Closet have soared. More and more families are discovering Myrtle’s Closet’s organized array of quality second hand clothing at reasonable prices.

Myrtle’s Closet, a thrift store and program of the Springfield Area Parent Child Center, serves as a worksite opportunity to various community programs including the Gateway and Learning Together programs.

“Some day you turn 18 and if you don’t have skills to use in your community, then you won’t have a very bright future,” shared Julie Waite, Gateway program job coordinator.

Worksites are all about learning within relationships. The Learning Together program, also a program of the SAPCC, prepares teenage mothers for the dual role of raising a child and being a member of the workforce.

While the Gateway program is an alternative school program working to move students experiencing social and emotional challenges to get back on track and to find stability, all in preparation for a successful return to their home school.

“We all have challenges, but we can still do good work with support. We can have a good job and be a good community member,” shared Waite.

Myrtle’s Closet is one of the many worksites offered to students attending the Gateway and Learning Together programs, yet each one is similar in that they demand professionalism and are instructive while encouraging the students to have fun.

Waite shared that students who complete their community service at Myrtle’s Closet learn skills essential to successful employment. Students practice social skills, such as team work and getting along with others, as well as merchandising, running a cash register, and other aspects of running a business.

“You have to check it, price it, keep racks filled, and keep it clean. Some day students may be working in a store and they will already have these skills,” continued Waite.

Upon successful completion of the worksite experience, students exit with both a professional resume and references. Two students credit the worksite experience as the spark that ignited their ambition to attend college.

“It has been a pleasure to have the students come to Myrtle’s Closet and see the progress they make learning retail,” shared Wanda Blanchard, Myrtle’s Closet store manager and job coach.

The Springfield Area Parent Child Center is a free and elective community resource building strong communities, one family at a time. To learn more about Myrtle’s Closet and the array of services offered by the center visit www.sapcc-vt.org.

http://www.messagefortheweek.com/MSG/story/090630-jem-springfield