Since 2007, Esperanza has received state government funding to operate the Employment Advancement and Retention Network Center (EARN Center), the standard model in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for transitioning TANF recipients from welfare to work. We partner with local County Assistance Offices (CAO) to serve individuals who are receiving cash benefits, and who are required to take steps to transition into long-term employment. Our partnering CAOs refer participants who benefit from the following services at our Center:


Intake and Assessment
Program participants complete an intensive, 5-day orientation period in which we assess their work and educational history, gather information about their family situation and other needs, and review the program guidelines. Based on the assessment, we create a plan for their participation, to help them begin addressing education and employment goals.


Case Management
Case managers fulfill a critical role to support participants in making progress on their education and employment goals. They provide referrals to external resources for people facing mental health issues, addictions, court involvement, parenting challenges, shortages of food, clothing, or other essentials, and any other kinds of barriers to success. They help participants secure childcare and manage their schedules. Probably most importantly, they develop relationships with participants to help motivate and encourage them to succeed.


Education
All participants go through job readiness training classes, where they write resumes, practice interviewing skills, and learn appropriate workplace attire and behavior. Our EARN Center also offers basic computer literacy and financial literacy training, and workshops on other employment-related topics such as teamwork and conflict resolution. Participants can be referred to adult basic education, GED preparation, and English as a Second Language (ESL) services as needed. Some participants enroll in external skills training programs to earn certifications (for example, as Certified Nursing Assistants or childcare professionals), and some may enroll in college or other vocational/technical institutions.


Internships
Participants have the opportunity to serve in either paid or unpaid internships with local nonprofit organizations. For people with limited or no work history, internship experiences help them become more accustomed to a workplace setting and build marketable skills.


Job Search Assistance
Specialized staff at our EARN Center build relationships with local employers to help facilitate the hiring of our program participants. We help set up interviews and conduct follow up, and once participants become employed, we support them for their first 6 months on the job. Businesses value the support we provide in the hiring process, and know that they can always come to us for qualified applicants for their positions.