Project Rise Success

In their most recent newsletter, NYC’s Center for Economic Opportunity (CEO) released a statement about Project Rise and the recent success these programs have had increasing high school equivalency attainment rates, internship participation, employment rates and college enrollment:

“During the first three quarters of 2014, providers saw each of these outcomes rise. For example, 43% of participants in the most recently completed class earned their HSE—an all-time high for Project Rise providers—and 35% of participants completed their internship, a substantial increase from the previous class. The sites achieved these goals by relentlessly focusing on outcomes, shifting strategies based on participant needs, and by learning from each other.”

If you want to see how successful we’ve been with helping students reach their academic and employment goals, check out our most recent statistics. I’d say KCC’s Project Rise is doing a pretty amazing job!

Project Rise September 2014 infographic

KCC Urban Farm Produce Distributions

Now that school is back in session, it’s a good time to remind everyone about the KCC Urban Farm/Single Stop produce distributions.

We will continue to distribute free farm-fresh produce to KCC students with valid ID (this event is only open to students with a valid KCC ID) every Thursday until the end of the season. In addition to produce, this event will also host cooking demonstrations that showcase some of what is being given out. Check our events page to see where these distributions will happen.

Note: this distribution is open to KCC students, only. If you’re not currently a student, sign up for one of our Continuing Education classes that are held year round.

Here’s a snapshot of past distributions:

Green Thumb Harvest Fair

This Saturday, September 13th, Green Thumb will be hosting a harvest fair to honor NYC’s urban gardeners. Visit our Events page to get specific information about this event.  

They are also looking for volunteers to help with:

  • Setting up tables, chairs, signage, tents, etc.
  • Directing traffic and conducting outreach by providing people with maps or giving them directions as well as handing out flyers and letting the general public know about the event.
  • Customer service and communication through answering questions and/or finding the right person to assist.
  • Workshop support by assisting with educational programs and activities.
  • Breaking down tables, chairs, signage, tents, clean up, etc.

If you’re interested in signing up to be a volunteer, visit NYC Service’s website.

NRC Culinary Arts

NRC Culinary Arts classes started last week and students are already in the kitchen. Chef Riley leads a class in weights and measurements:

Northeast Resiliency Consortium (NRC) programming trains workers who play critical roles during times of crisis. If you’re interested in getting more information about NRC’s Culinary Arts program, call us today at 718.368.4637. Your future awaits!

Job Focused Websites

It’s been a while since we’ve posted information about applying for jobs. Since you’re probably reading this post on a computer, we’ll give you a small sampling of some great job focused websites that will make your next move so much smoother.

If you haven’t signed up for the Daily Muse, I highly suggest getting on their mailing list. Instead of simply posting stagnant job information, their articles directly target job searchers with information about trending businesses, advice about moving ahead in current positions, guidance about constructing a resume that will stand out to potential employers, the roles of social media in job searching and networking, and hot-topic articles that are relevant to all workers.

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Another CEWD Open House!

If you haven’t been able to make it to our previous open houses, there’s no reason to worry, we’ve just scheduled more!

Come to one of our our open houses (September 3rd, 4th and 5th and 10am) to learn about the affordable career training programs offered at CEWD. You must call or email to get location information, so contact us today! 718.368.4637

LaborDay2014

September Job Fairs in NYC

Wow! September is PACKED with Job Fairs in NYC. Here’s a listing of September job fairs and career-related events happening throughout New York City (and some in the outer boroughs):

Upcoming Fairs/Workshops/Events*:

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Jazz Age Lawn Party

In August, a number of NRC Culinary Arts students were given the opportunity to work a refreshments table at the Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors Island. This prohibition-era, historical gathering brought attendees back to a time when gramophones were king, cars were beautiful and dance was an art.

Seven NRC students from Culinary Arts Cohorts 2 and 3 worked with Michelle’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Pickles, Ukulele Luau, Arenella’s Raw Bar and many others, preparing and serving food to event-goers. This paid work opportunity provided our students with valuable catering experience that many had never been introduced to before.

If you’re interested in opportunities like this, come to CEWD’s Fall Open House to hear all about NRC and our other workforce training programs.

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KCC Urban Farm Summer 2014 Newsletter

Are you curious about we’re doing on the Farm? Here’s a sneak peek at the KCC Urban Farm Summer 2014 Newsletter:

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything that’s happening on our urban farm…or just keep following us here.

Harvest Fest at Paerdegat Park

The office of Senator Kevin Parker will be hosting the 7th Annual Harvest Fest, an end-of-summer, back-to-school celebration on Saturday, September 6, 2014 (12:00-5:00p) at Paerdegat Park (E. 40th St between Foster and Albany Aves).

Along with food, music and activities, this event will provide information about local youth programs and and for those looking to go to college. Fiormelissa from the Northeast Resiliency Consortium will be there to talk about NRC and other programs offered at CEWD.

From Kevin Parker’s offices: “This highly anticipated event has become a signature community event for working families as they prepare to send their school-aged children back to school.”

Go early so you can pick up free back-to-school supplies including backpacks, notebooks and pens and pencils, and that are offered to local families (while supplies last).