A dynamic group of prospective candidates for HPP’s Community Health Worker (CHW) Training Program filled our lobby on Feb. 19 to attend an orientation and submit their resumes. Thirty candidates from a variety of backgrounds vied for a maximum of three available slots, demonstrating the high interest level in the program and need for jobs amidst the economic recession. Current CHW Heshima Jenkins (pictured in the photo) helped lead the orientation.
HPP’s CHW Training Program is a highly competitive, intensive, 12-month paid job training program that prepares economically disadvantaged and formerly homeless mothers for employment. More than 50% of candidates chosen to be CHW trainees are former HPP clients. Many graduates of the program go on to work in a variety of positions at local community-based organizations, and some fill HPP’s open staff positions.
CHW prospective candidate Vermyttya Byrd shared her motivation behind applying for the program. “I received such wonderful support from HPP to overcome the challenges I faced while I was a client, and I know that being a part of this program will help bring me one step closer to getting my life back on track.”